What should I do when my child gets angry about brushing teeth or getting dressed? 

Parenting Perspective 

Activities such as brushing teeth and getting dressed may appear simple to adults, but for many children, they can feel intrusive, overwhelming, or frustrating. Young children might resist due to a sense of being rushed, sensitivity to sensation, or a desire for independence. Older children may express anger to mask feelings of embarrassment or sensory discomfort. These outbursts are often not signs of defiance, but rather indicators that the routine presents emotional or physical difficulty. 

Break tasks into small steps 

Begin by simplifying routines into manageable actions. Use tools such as: 

• Visual schedules 

• Soft countdowns 

These give your child a sense of predictability and control. Instead of saying, It is time to brush your teeth, say: 

• In two minutes, we will brush our teeth. 

Praise cooperative behaviour: 

• Your quick response helped keep us on track. 

Respond gently to resistance 

If your child becomes upset, stay calm and avoid escalating. Say: 

• I see that you are feeling upset. We will try again in one minute. 

For children with sensory needs, explore alternative materials such as different toothbrush textures or more comfortable clothing fabrics. Consistency, clarity, and emotional safety gradually help children manage routine tasks with confidence and less distress. They begin to realise that frustration can be overcome without resorting to anger. 

Spiritual Insight 

Allah Almighty reminds us in the noble Quran, Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 286: 

‘Allah (Almighty) does not place any burden on any human being except that which is within his capacity… ‘

This verse reinforces the idea that all challenges, including emotional ones, are manageable with the right support and intention. Helping children through everyday frustrations builds their ability to approach life’s duties with resilience and patience. 

It is reported in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3689, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ consistently treated children with gentleness and empathy. He exemplified that devotion lies not only in major acts of worship, but also in the mindful fulfilment of simple responsibilities. He said: 

Indeed, Allah is gentle and loves gentleness in all matters. 

Transform moments of struggle into moments of learning. Remind your child: 

• Brushing our teeth helps care for the body Allah Almighty has gifted us. 

A short prayer such as: 

‘O Allah Almighty, assist me in doing what is right even when I do not feel like it. ‘

can help connect everyday tasks to spiritual purpose. With time, children will learn that managing emotions during ordinary routines is a quiet but powerful form of devotion and inner strength.