What Islamic stories build self-worth for my child? 

Parenting Perspective 

Stories of Hope and Resilience 

Stories are one of the most powerful ways to build a child’s sense of self-worth, especially for children with special educational needs (SEN) or unique struggles. Through these narratives, children see that they are not alone and that their challenges do not define their value. Islamic stories, in particular, can remind your child that their worth comes from Allah Almighty and the goodness in their heart. 

The Story of Prophet Musa ﷺ 

Choose stories that highlight figures who faced struggles yet remained close to Allah Almighty. For example, the story of Prophet Musa (Moses) ﷺ can comfort a child who feels different or worries about speaking. You can remind them that Prophet Musa ﷺ had difficulty with his speech but still carried out a mighty mission with Allah Almighty’s help. 

The Story of Prophet Yunus ﷺ 

The story of Prophet Yunus (Jonah) ﷺ teaches that everyone can feel lost or overwhelmed, but when we turn back to Allah Almighty, we find hope again. For children who struggle with mistakes or big feelings, this story can remind them that they are never too far gone for Allah Almighty’s mercy. 

Stories of Repentance and Mercy 

Share the story of the boy who killed a man in error but sincerely repented and was forgiven. This shows your child that one bad moment does not make them a bad person forever; they can always grow, change, and be loved by Allah Almighty. 

Stories of the Prophet’s Kindness 

Include simple stories about the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ’s deep kindness to children. He ﷺ would shorten prayers if he heard a child crying and showed gentle respect for each child’s feelings. Knowing that our Prophet ﷺ cared so deeply for children helps your child feel seen and valued, no matter what challenges they carry. 

Spiritual Insight 

Our faith reminds us that true worth comes not from how the world labels us, but from how we stand with Allah Almighty. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujurat (49), Verse 13: 

‘Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you…‘

This Ayah shows that it is the goodness in our hearts, not our abilities or struggles, that makes us loved by Allah Almighty. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ’s life is full of examples that teach self-worth rooted in faith, kindness, and hope. It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1828, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘Allah is not kind to him who is not kind to people.‘

Being kind to your own heart and honouring your self-worth is part of this Sunnah too. 

Make a gentle Dua with your child: ‘O Allah Almighty, help me remember that I am loved by You.’ Keep sharing stories that help your child feel proud of who they are. Each one is a gentle seed of faith, dignity, and hope that will, InshaAllah, grow strong over time.