Raising Future Leaders: A Parent's Guide to Raising Grounded Individuals

[Parent-Child Relationship (from U splash)]

By Abraham Sequoia

In the intricate fabric of parenting, guiding our children through the challenging terrain of adolescence requires wisdom and intentionality. Here, I share reflections and strategies that have shaped my journey as a parent, navigating the delicate balance of instilling values, fostering religious understanding, and building character.

 1. Dua: The Pillar of Strength 🤲

Our journey begins with supplication. Recognizing that guidance is a divine favor, we offer prayers for the steadfastness and righteousness of our children. Drawing inspiration from the trials faced by prophets, we understand that faith is a gift from Allah, not guaranteed by our desires.

 2. Early Shaping of Interests 🌱

In the formative years of 7 to 13, our children's minds are like clay, waiting to be molded. Deliberately curating their activities, from Hifz sessions to quality playtime, helps build a foundation that resonates with righteousness. By shaping their experiences, we subtly shape their character.

 3. Knowledge of Allah: Beyond Memorization 📚

While Hifz lays the foundation, delving into the meanings of verses, prophetic stories, and moral exhortations offers a holistic understanding of their religious identity. Outsourcing some aspects to teachers is fine, but active parental involvement in imparting wisdom is irreplaceable.

 4. Choosing Good Company 👥

In the profound words of the Prophet, "A man is on the religion of his friend." Guarding against associations that trivialize religion is crucial. Our children don't engage with friends from homes where faith is secondary or an afterthought.

 5. Maximizing Control: A Time-Bound Opportunity ⏰

Up until around age 15, we can actively shape their schedules. Seizing this window, we fill their time with meaningful activities, from extra lessons to religious classes. As they transition to adult-like interests, family engagement in religious circles becomes pivotal.

 6. Navigating the Smartphone Dilemma 📱

Strategically delaying smartphone access fosters a sense of responsibility and limits undue privacy. While practical constraints may necessitate earlier access, setting clear boundaries remains crucial to maintaining a healthy parent-child relationship.

 7. Kindness and Love: The Lasting Connection ❤️

As they reach 17 and beyond, our strongest tool is kindness. Fostering a deep, genuine connection ensures that our children continue to value our guidance. Love becomes the binding force that transcends age, making our influence enduring.

In conclusion, the journey of parenting is a dynamic one, requiring adaptability and unwavering commitment. By combining prayer, intentional guidance, and genuine love, we set the stage for our children to blossom into grounded, responsible individuals.

```Abraham Sequoia  

(A Parent from ME)```

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