How Can I Teach My Child About Allah?

27 February, 2020
Q I have started to teach my 3.6 years boy about Allah. I tell him that we pray to thank Allah for all the good things He gives us.

Two days ago, my son had a nightmare so I told him that if we read the Qur`an together before sleeping, he will be protected from the animals that bite him in his nightmare.

But my husband thinks it is too early to tell him all that as I am not mentioning hell or devils or anything like that. I need your advice on this.

Answer

In this counseling answer:

•You are teaching your son about Allah’s love, mercy and protection at an age-appropriate level.

•You might also want to recite ayat al-kursi to your son as the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) told us of it’s protective powers from evil (bad dreams) when recited.

•By reading this ayat to your son every night, he will begin to learn the words and later the meaning and soon recitation


As-salamu alaykum,

I am not an Islamic Scholar but I think you are correct in handling the situation as you are.

You are teaching your son about Allah’s love, mercy, and protection at an age-appropriate level.

This is most important and fundamental for little children to learn, that Allah SWT is Al-Muhaymin, Ar-Rahman; Ar-Rahim.

As he grows older he will be able to cognitively process the deeper concepts of Islam, but for now, he is blessed to be learning the basics.

As many parents do not start teaching their children to be thankful to Allah, or to turn to Him for protection until they are much older.

Ex-Wife Against Teaching Islam to My Daughter - About Islam

You are doing a wonderful job mash’Allah! Insha’Allah you might also want to recite ayat al-kursi to your son as the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) told us of it’s protective powers from evil (bad dreams) when recited.

By reading this ayat to your son every night, he will begin to learn the words and later the meaning and soon recitation of it will insha’Allah come easy for him.


Check out this counseling video


Additionally, it will be something he will get used to reciting, which will be a blessing and protection for him as well.

May Allah bless you sister for your efforts in teaching your son about Allah SWT.

Ameen

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Disclaimer: The conceptualization and recommendations stated in this response are very general and purely based on the limited information provided in the question. In no event shall AboutIslam, its counselors or employees be held liable for any damages that may arise from your decision in the use of our services.

About Aisha Mohammad
Aisha received her PhD in psychology in 2000 and an MS in public health in 2009. Aisha worked as a Counselor/Psychologist for 12 years for Geneva B. Scruggs Community Health Care Center in New York. Aisha specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, marriage/relationships issues, as well as community-cultural dynamics. She is certified in Restorative Justice/ Healing Circles, Conflict Resolution, Mediation, and is also a certified Life Coach. Aisha works at a Family Resource Center, and has a part-time practice in which she integrates healing and spirituality using a holistic approach. Aisha plans to open a holistic care counseling center for Muslims and others in the New York area in the future, in sha' Allah. Aisha is also a part of several organizations that advocate for social & food justice. In her spare time she enjoys her family, martial arts classes, Islamic studies as well as working on her book and spoken word projects.