Parenting Perspective 

Teach the Difference Between Right and Wrong 

Nurturing a strong conscience in your child is about helping them to develop an internal moral compass that guides them to make good decisions based on integrity, empathy, and respect. You can start by teaching your child the difference between right and wrong in a way they can understand. Use everyday situations to highlight moral choices, such as helping others, being honest, or showing kindness. For example, ‘When you share your toys with your friends, it shows that you care about their feelings.’ 

Promote Empathy and Reflection 

Encourage your child to consider the impact of their actions on others. You might ask, ‘How would you feel if someone said that to you?’ This promotes empathy and helps them to understand that their actions affect the people around them. It is also important to praise your child when they show thoughtfulness or kindness, as this reinforces their positive behaviour. Teach your child the value of self-reflection. You can encourage them to pause and think before making decisions, especially in situations where they might be tempted to act impulsively. 

Model Accountability 

Children often mirror their parents, so it is important to show them how you live according to your own conscience. When you make a mistake, demonstrate how to take responsibility and seek forgiveness if it is necessary. For instance, ‘I am sorry for raising my voice earlier. I should have been more patient.’ This teaches your child that having a strong conscience involves recognising our mistakes and striving to improve. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, the concept of conscience is closely linked to the guidance that is provided by Allah Almighty. The Quran teaches us that our moral compass is shaped by following the path of righteousness and avoiding what Allah has forbidden. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Aa’raaf (7), Verse 199: 

‘(O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) adopt a forgiving approach and encourage (the doing of) positive (moral actions), and disregard those who are imbued in their ignorance.’ 

This verse teaches us the importance of controlling our reactions and acting with kindness and wisdom, even in difficult situations. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also emphasised the importance of good character and of following a strong moral compass. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3587, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

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

This Hadith highlights the importance of nurturing good character at home and within the family. By teaching your child to develop a strong conscience, you are guiding them to embody these Islamic values of integrity, responsibility, and respect in all areas of their life.