Parenting Perspective 

When mistakes are made, it is essential to model a holistic approach to repair that combines both Duas (supplications) and practical amends. By integrating these two elements, you can teach your children how faith in Allah Almighty guides us toward true healing, not just through words but also through actions. This balanced approach will help them understand that while Duas are a powerful tool for seeking Allah’s mercy, practical efforts to make things right are equally important in mending relationships. 

Acknowledge the Mistake and Express Sincere Regret 

The first step is acknowledging the mistake openly. This is an essential foundation for both Duas and practical amends. 

• How to explain: For children, explain that when they have wronged someone, they must first admit their mistake honestly. You can say, ‘It is important to recognise when we have done something wrong, not to feel guilty but to be sincere in our apology.’ 

Seek Forgiveness through Duas 

Once the mistake is acknowledged, it is time to turn to Allah Almighty for forgiveness. Teaching children specific Duas for seeking Allah’s mercy helps them connect their actions to faith. 

• What to do: Duas like ‘Astaghfirullaha Rabbi Min Kulli Dhambin Wa Atubu Ilayh’ (I ask forgiveness from Allah, my Lord, for all my sins, and I turn to Him) are powerful supplications. Teach your children to say these Duas with sincerity. 

Take Practical Steps to Make Amends 

While Duas are a spiritual step, practical amends are equally vital. Guide your children to think about how they can practically make up for their actions. 

• Examples: 

• If they have hurt someone’s feelings, encourage them to apologise directly. 

• If they have been careless with their belongings, help them take responsibility. 

• If they have failed to meet a promise, have them make a commitment to fulfil it. 

Commit to Change 

Repairing a situation requires more than a one-time effort. Teach your children that a sincere apology and Duas should be accompanied by a commitment to improve. 

• Why it matters: They should reflect on how they can avoid repeating the mistake and actively work to change their behaviour. This reinforces that it is not just about asking for forgiveness, but about turning away from the mistake with genuine effort. 

Regular Reflection and Duas 

Once practical amends are made, encourage your children to reflect regularly on their actions and recite Duas to strengthen their faith. 

• What to do: Duas like ‘Rabbana Atina Fi Dunya Hasanatun Wa Fi Akhirati Hasanatun Wa Qina Adhab An Nar’ (Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire) help them remain conscious of their spiritual and moral goals. 

By combining Duas with practical steps, you instil in your children that faith is not just a series of words but a guiding force that influences both their inner and outer actions. 

Spiritual Insight 

The Capacity for Forgiveness and Change 

The noble Quran reassures us that Allah’s mercy and forgiveness are always accessible. When we seek to repair our actions, Allah does not expect us to bear the weight of our wrongdoings alone. 

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

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

Through Duas and practical amends, He enables us to seek forgiveness and work toward improvement, showing us that repair is a spiritual act that aligns with our capacity to change. 

The Boundless Mercy of Allah 

The teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ demonstrate the boundless mercy of Allah. When we combine Duas with genuine efforts to make amends, Allah Almighty promises forgiveness, no matter the scale of the sin. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 3397, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘If a servant seeks forgiveness from Allah, He will forgive him, even if his sins are as many as the foam on the sea.’ 

This teaches children that through sincere repentance and positive action, they can always return to Allah’s mercy, helping them understand that faith supports real-world actions of repair and growth.