Parenting Perspective 

When children carry snacks into libraries, cinemas, or museums, they often do not intend to break rules; they simply do not yet grasp the crucial difference between public and private spaces. Teaching them how to act respectfully in shared environments requires clear, calm language and consistent modelling. A simple, predictable script can help parents set boundaries without embarrassment or conflict. The fundamental aim is to nurture self-awareness and consideration, not to instil a fear of rules. 

Start with Respect, Not Restriction 

Parents should begin with an explanatory tone rather than a command. One might say, “Every place has its own rules, and we follow them to show respect.” For example, parents can explain the specific reasons for the rules: “Libraries are quiet places for reading, so we do not eat there. Museums protect their displays, so food can damage them. In cinemas, we eat what is allowed and clean up before leaving.” This framing helps the child to see rules as purposeful and logical, not arbitrary restrictions. 

Use a Consistent Family Script 

A practical script that parents can adapt and use consistently is as follows: 

• “Before we enter, let us check – is this a food place or a no-food place? 

• If it is a no-food place, we will keep our snacks away until later. 

• We show good manners by respecting other people’s space.” 

Parents must repeat this exact phrasing calmly before every outing. This predictability builds awareness, and soon the child will ask independently, “Mummy, can we eat here?” That moment of self-checking is the ultimate goal, as it signifies that responsibility has replaced reminders. 

Model the Behaviour and Follow Through 

If food must remain outside, parents should store it without complaint. It is important to avoid phrases such as, “They are being strict,” which inadvertently teach resistance to authority. Instead, state calmly, “Rules help everyone enjoy the place safely.” Parents should praise good behaviour immediately: “You remembered to wait until after the museum – that is very respectful!” Positive reinforcement helps children link self-control with a sense of pride and belonging. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam places great emphasis on adab – refined manners that extend beyond prayer and worship into all areas of life. Respecting boundaries in public spaces, such as refraining from eating where it is prohibited, is an act of social integrity and humility. It teaches children that Islam is not solely about what they eat (Halal and Haraam) but also about where and how they eat. 

Respecting Public Order as a Sign of Faith 

Allah Almighty states 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 highlights that righteousness is reflected through one’s conduct, not status. When children learn to observe rules in shared spaces – quietly, politely, and respectfully – they are practising righteousness in action. Such behaviour builds harmony, consideration, and dignity among people, as Islam strongly encourages. 

The Prophet ﷺ and Good Manners as Worship 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 2003, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Nothing is heavier on the Scale of Deeds than good character, and indeed the person with good character reaches the rank of the one who fasts and prays.’ 

This hadith shows clearly that manners are not mere social skills; they are acts of worship rewarded by Allah Almighty. When children refrain from eating in a museum or clean up after themselves in a cinema, they are not simply following rules; they are demonstrating akhlaaq (noble character) that draws them closer to Allah Almighty. 

By using calm, consistent scripts and connecting behaviour to core Islamic values, parents can help children see that respect for places and people is an integral part of faith. Over time, children will carry this awareness into every environment, honouring both social rules and divine guidance with quiet dignity.