🧒 Raising children (tarbiyah) · #216

Our young child feels distant and shy with his father, who is always abroad. What should we do?

A child's shyness towards a father who is seldom around is normal and can be healed with time and patience, not force. Do not force your child to be affectionate straight away or blame him for being shy; let closeness grow slowly. While away, the father can keep the relationship going through regular calls, stories and simple games so that the child knows his voice. When he comes home, the father should spend time playing at the child's level, not only correcting or giving instructions. The mother, for her part, helps by mentioning the father's good qualities in front of the child. In time the child will open his heart again. See educating the family.

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This answer is general reference, not a fatwa. For your situation, consult the religious affairs office, a Syarie lawyer or your state Syariah Court.

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