Parenting Perspective 

Make the Language Safe, Fun, and Relevant 

It can be worrying when a child flatly refuses to speak a language you value at home. This often happens when a child feels the language is too difficult, embarrassing, or not used enough in their daily life. First, try to understand why they are resisting. Are they anxious about making mistakes? Do they see the other language as more ‘cool’ or comfortable? It is important to avoid scolding them or turning it into a battle. Instead, you can make the language feel safe, fun, and relevant. 

Use simple phrases during everyday routines, at mealtimes, during bedtime stories, or at play. You can sing songs, read short books, or share jokes in that language. Celebrate any small effort without criticising their pronunciation. Let them hear you speak it naturally with family or friends, so they see it is not a ‘school subject’ but a living part of your home. Children need to feel that their attempts will be met with patience and smiles, not correction and stress. Over time, gentle exposure and your warm example will open their heart to trying again. 

Spiritual Insight 

A Sign of Allah’s Wisdom 

In Islam, every language is a gift from Allah Almighty, meant to bring people closer together and to deepen our understanding. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Rome (30), Verse 22: 

‘And amongst His Signs (of the infinite truth) are that He (Allah Almighty) created the layers of trans-universal existence and the Earth; and (designed) diversity of your languages and your (skin) colours; indeed, in this there are (logical and rational) Signs for those who are imbued with knowledge.’ 

This verse reminds us that different languages are a sign of His wisdom, not a burden. 

A Gentle and Hopeful Path 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 2646, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘Whoever treads a path in search of knowledge, Allah Almighty will make easy for him a path to Paradise.’ 

This Hadith Shareef encourages us to keep trying and to make seeking knowledge a gentle and hopeful process. If your child resists a language, remember that hearts often soften through kindness, not force. Pray that Allah Almighty blesses their tongue with confidence. Surround them with gentle reminders that using this language is part of honouring their family and their roots. Be patient and trust that every small word spoken with sincerity is counted and rewarded, and in time, your child may speak with ease, InshaAllah, when it feels natural and beloved in their heart.