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What is the Islamic approach to feeding and focus?

Parenting Perspective

The Islamic approach to eating offers timeless guidance that supports both physical health and mental clarity. For children, these principles create a balanced framework that not only nourishes the body but also shapes attitudes around food and attention. Teaching children to begin meals with ‘Bismillah’ cultivates mindfulness and gratitude, reminding them that what they eat is a gift, not a guarantee. This helps young children learn to listen to their bodies, recognise fullness, and appreciate the flavours and textures of what is offered.
Avoiding distractions during meals, such as screens, toys, or stressful conversations, allows children to concentrate on eating and develop a healthy relationship with food. Sitting together at a table, using calm voices, and enjoying meals as a family fosters connection and emotional security. These routines also strengthen attention and focus, as children learn to engage with the moment rather than rush through it. Feeding with focus and gratitude lays the foundation for positive eating habits and emotional well-being that can last a lifetime.

Spiritual Insight

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Aa’raaf (7), Verse 31: ‘O children of Adam, take your adornment at every Masjid, and eat and drink but do not be extravagant. Surely, He (Allah Almighty) does not like the extravagant.’ This Ayah clearly links nourishment with modesty and thankfulness. The act of eating is not merely about satisfying hunger; it reflects one’s relationship with Allah Almighty. Islam encourages us to eat what is Halal and wholesome, but also to remain conscious of how much and how often. Overindulgence dulls the mind, while gratitude sharpens it.
It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3349, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: ‘The son of Adam does not fill any container worse than his stomach. It is sufficient for the son of Adam to eat a few mouthfuls to keep his back straight. If he must, then a third for food, a third for drink, and a third for air.’ This Hadith Shareef gives a clear and profound structure for portion control, grounded in spiritual discipline. For children, when these lessons are introduced gently and consistently, they begin to understand that food is a means of strength, not excess. They learn that eating with gratitude and focus is not only better for the body but also pleasing to Allah Almighty.

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