The Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam showed us practically how to bring up good children. Here are some glimpses into his noble character:
Creating a good association with actions
Jaabir bin Samurah radhiallahu anhu a young child, said that he prayed Zuhr with the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam in the Musjid. The Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam went to his house and he went with him. As the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam was walking, he would wipe his hands on the cheeks of the kids passing by. Jaabir radhiallahu anhu said that he never smelled a fragrance more beautiful than the fragrance of the hand of the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam.
Look at this event from the point of Jaabir radhiallahu anhu. His memory of Zuhr at the Musjid is one of being close to the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam, of smelling his fragrance and seeing the happiness he brought to other children. Whenever Jaabir radhiallahu anhu went to the Musjid thereafter, what fond memories would he have had? He has something good associated with going for salaah. What do our kids think of when we mention Salaah?
Respect
Abdullah ibn Abbas radhiallahu anhu, a child, was behind the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam riding on the same mount and the Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam said: ‘O young man, I shall teach you some words [of advice]: Be mindful of Allah and Allah will protect you. Be mindful of Allah and you will find Him in front of you. If you ask, then ask Allah [alone]...’ He gave him other advices.
1. The Prophet sallallahu alaihi wa sallam was spending time with him.
2. He addressed him with respect.
3. The advise he gave was intellectual. How do we advise our children? Do we demean them, or speak to them like they are incapable of understanding anything of importance?
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