🧒 Raising children (tarbiyah) · #85

My little one is very stubborn and defiant. How do I deal with it without breaking his spirit?

Stubbornness is often a sign that a child is building his will and sense of self, and the aim is to guide that energy, not to break it. Give him limited choices that you are happy with, for example ‘the blue shirt or the green one’, so that he feels some control without chaos. Set only a few important rules and be firm on them, while letting small things go. Acknowledge his feelings before setting a limit: ‘Mummy understands you are angry, but we do not hurt people.’ Avoid power struggles in front of other people. Praise his cooperation so that good behaviour is what gets noticed. A strong-willed child, guided with love, often grows into an adult of firm principle. 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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