Parenting Perspective 

Celebrate Uniqueness 

Helping siblings to understand each other’s differences is essential for fostering empathy, respect, and cooperation within the family. You can start by discussing the uniqueness of each family member and explaining that everyone has different strengths, weaknesses, and ways of thinking. You could say, ‘Just as we all have different likes and dislikes, each of us has our own way of seeing and doing things. It is important to respect these differences and to support each other.’ This helps your children to realise that diversity within the family is something to be celebrated, not something to cause division. 

Encourage Open Communication 

It is important to encourage open communication between your children. When conflicts arise due to their differences, you can guide them to express their feelings in a calm and respectful manner. For example, if one sibling feels left out or upset, you can ask both to express how they feel and to listen to each other. ‘How do you feel when your brother does that? Can you see how it might make him feel?’ This teaches them to communicate their emotions effectively and to consider the feelings of others. 

Highlight Each Other’s Strengths 

Additionally, you should highlight the strengths of each of your children. If one child excels in academics while the other is more artistic, praise both for their achievements and remind them that both contributions are valuable. ‘You both have your unique talents. Your sister’s creativity and your hard work in school are both important and should be celebrated.’ This encourages mutual respect and reinforces the idea that each sibling has their own valuable qualities. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, Allah created each person with unique qualities, and embracing these differences is a part of building harmonious relationships. Allah Almighty says in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 13: 

‘O mankind, indeed, We (Allah Almighty) have created you all from one man and one woman; and placed you amongst various nations and tribes for your introduction to each other; indeed, the best of you in the judgement of Allah (Almighty) is the one who is most virtuous; indeed, Allah (Almighty) is the Omniscient, the all Cognisant.’ 

This verse teaches that diversity is part of Allah’s wisdom, and that the best way to appreciate others is through kindness, respect, and righteousness. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also exemplified respect for individual differences. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3587, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘The best of you are those who are the best to their families.’ 

This Hadith highlights that the most important relationships, especially those within the family, should be built on mutual respect and understanding. By teaching your children to embrace and to understand each other’s differences, you are helping them to embody these Islamic values in their relationships.