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What makes children open up about their emotions in everyday settings?

Parenting Perspective

When kids feel that the emotional door is already open rather than being pushed open, they become more receptive. The most common situations for this to occur are ones that are calm and non-aggressive, such as drawing side by side, driving, going to bed, or softly folding clothes together. Because there is no pressure, indirect eye contact, and a moderate tempo, these ordinary moments carry emotional safety. Avoid correcting, fixing problems too fast, or guiding your child to counsel when they do share. Building emotional trust can be facilitated by a straightforward, sincere reaction such as ‘That sounds really tough’ or ‘I am glad you told me.’ Children gradually come to understand that you are a place where their inner selves are accepted and not condemned or corrected.  

Spiritual Insight

Emotional intimacy begins with gentleness. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Aalai Imran (3), Verse 159: ‘So, it is by the mercy from Allah (Almighty) that you (O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) are lenient with them; and if you had been harsh (in your speech) or restrained in your heart, they would have dispersed from around you….’ It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6395, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, ‘Be gentle and calm, O `Aisha, as Allah Almighty likes gentleness in all affairs.’ The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ served as a haven for hearts. Because he led with mercy, everyone felt emotionally comfortable around him, even kids. Your calmness and quiet availability may be the secret to your child’s voice in your own house. If compassion is consistently practised then it fosters emotional attachment rather than inquiry.

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