Parenting Perspective 

Goodbyes at the school gate can be difficult when a child clings tightly, anxious to separate. A confident, predictable phrase can act as a bridge, reassuring them that you are leaving but will return. Children are highly sensitive to tone, so your calm, steady words matter more than length. 

How to Create a Goodbye Phrase 

Keep It Short and Predictable: Choose one phrase you repeat daily, such as “Have a good day, I’ll see you after school, Insha’Allah.” Predictability reduces uncertainty. 

Use Warm but Firm Tone: Smile, speak gently, but avoid hesitation. If your words sound anxious, your child will mirror that emotion. 

Pair with a Gesture: Add a consistent signal like a wave, a special handshake, or a forehead kiss. This becomes a ritual that anchors them in familiarity. 

Reassure, Do not Over-Explain: Avoid long promises or bargaining. One calm phrase is more grounding than multiple explanations. 

Children cling because they fear separation, but when they see you leaving with warmth and confidence, they gradually learn to feel safe in your absence. Over time, this simple phrase becomes a powerful emotional anchor. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us to start the day and every journey with remembrance of Allah Almighty. By embedding faith in your goodbye phrase, you not only soothe your child but also remind them that protection ultimately comes from Him. 

Guidance from the Noble Quran 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Tawbah (9), Verses 51: 

‘Say (O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ): “No calamity (or difficulty) shall ever befall upon us, except what has been decreed by Allah (Almighty); He is our Lord, and so the believers place their full reliance upon Allah (Almighty)”.’ 

This reminds us that safety and reassurance come through reliance on Allah Almighty, not endless worry. 

Teaching from the Hadith 

It is recorded in Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 5095, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Whoever says, “In the name of Allah, I place my trust in Allah, there is no power and no strength except with Allah,” it will be said to him: You are guided, you are defended, and you are protected.’ 

This teaches us that entrusting our affairs to Allah Almighty brings both protection and calm. 

By using a short, steady phrase tied to love and faith, you help your child feel secure when you part. They learn that even in moments of separation, they are never alone they are held by your love and under Allah Almighty’s care.