Parenting Perspective 

A child’s curiosity about the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is a sign of love in the making. Yet, parents sometimes fear that a clumsy or critical-sounding question might show disrespect. Out of this anxiety, they may silence the child with phrases like, ‘Do not say that,’ or, ‘You must not question him.’ While the intention is to protect reverence, the effect is often the opposite: children learn that their questions are unsafe, and the Prophet ﷺ becomes a distant figure rather than a cherished guide. 

The goal is to help your child feel that asking about the Prophet ﷺ is a doorway to a deeper connection, not a step towards disapproval. 

Honour Their Intent, Not Just Their Phrasing 

If your child asks, ‘Why did the Prophet ﷺ have more than one wife?’ or, ‘How did he fight in battles if he was merciful?’, try to hear the true intent behind the words. They are often trying to reconcile different ideas, not to attack his character. By calmly responding, ‘That is a thoughtful question; let us explore the answer together,’ you honour their effort to understand his life. 

Keep His Story Alive in Daily Life 

Children are more likely to ask questions when the Prophet ﷺ is not a distant historical figure but a living example in their home. Weave small stories of his character into your daily life: how he smiled at children, how he showed forgiveness to his enemies, or how he cared for animals. The more real and relatable he feels, the more natural it becomes for a child to ask about him. 

Respond with Openness, Not Defensiveness 

If you respond with sharpness or fear, your child learns to associate the Prophet ﷺ with anxiety. Instead, frame their question as an opportunity: ‘This is a wonderful chance for us to learn more about his incredible character.’ This approach connects the Prophet ﷺ with warmth and open dialogue. You could even create a special ‘Prophet’s Corner’ at home, a small shelf with books and stories about his life, making learning about him a family project. 

Spiritual Insight 

The noble Quran itself calls upon believers to reflect on the life of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, presenting him as the ultimate source of practical learning and guidance. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Ahzaab (33), Verse 21: 

‘Indeed, there is for you (O mankind) in (the personality of) the Messenger of Allah (Almighty) (Prophet Muhammad ﷺ), an outstanding example of incredible benevolence; it is for those people that have hope in Allah (Almighty) and the Day of Judgment, and (desire) to remember Allah (Almighty) excessively.’ 

This verse is a clear invitation to reflect, not to remain silent. To truly take the Prophet ﷺ as an example, one must be able to study, question, and internalise the details of his life with sincerity and an open heart. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6125, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Make things easy and do not make things difficult. Give glad tidings and do not cause aversion.’ 

By welcoming a child’s questions with ease and encouragement, parents are directly applying this prophetic advice. Instead of causing aversion through a harsh response, they give glad tidings by turning their child’s natural curiosity into a path towards deeper love and understanding. 

In time, your child will learn that asking about the Prophet ﷺ does not risk judgement but actually deepens their connection to him. They will discover that the more they ask, the more beauty they find in his life, and that you stand as their gentle guide, helping them to fall in love with the man who was sent as a mercy to all of creation.