Parents Favoritism Isn’t A Myth

If you’ve ever wondered whether your parents secretly had a favorite child, they might have. Parents may be more inclined to confer the “favorite child award” to daughters and children who are agreeable and conscientious, according to research published by the American Psychological Association. “For decades, researchers have known that differential treatment from parents can have lasting consequences for children,” said lead author Alexander Jensen, PhD, an associate professor at Brigham Young University. “This study helps us understand which children are more likely to be on the receiving end of favoritism, which can be both positive and negative.” The study … Continue reading →

Childhood Isn’t Easy – But Parenting Is Hard

Psychology Today posted an article by Josh Jones LCSW-R titled: “Childhood Isn’t Easy but Parenting Is Hard”. Here are three things he recommends to parents: Differentiate Between Who They Are And What They Do “We judge everyone by what they do, but we judge ourselves by how we feel.” This is why the metrics of our life can look great to everyone, and yet, to ourselves, something can still feel off; no matter what I do, something inside still feels wrong. This is a painful way to live, and often the roots of it can be found in childhood. Being … Continue reading →

Playful Parenting: Learning To Be Playful With Your Kids

It’s easy to get stuck in a parenting rut, and let’s face it: parenting can sometimes feel a little like “Groundhog Day”— the same routines on repeat day in, day out. While routine and structure are incredibly important for our children (and us!) we can sometimes forget to have fun, according to BabyChick. We feel tired and don’t have the energy to get down on the ground and play with our kids, or we’ve simply forgotten how to let go, be spontaneous and whimsical, and use our imaginations. However, playful parenting can be an important tool or approach when it … Continue reading →

What is Eggshell Parenting?

There is a wide variety parenting styles that parents can choose from. Many of these are healthy choices, and parents can pick and choose which style works for them. Eggshell parenting, however, is not a healthy choice for parents or their children. PopSugar reported that eggshell parenting is the latest parenting topic of conversation on TikTok. The term was coined by licensed clinical psychologist Kim Sage, Psy.D to describe a parent whose unpredictable behavior and emotional instability leave their child feeling unsettled and like they’re “walking on eggshells.” While its more than normal to get frustrated or upset sometimes as … Continue reading →

Islamic Waldorf School Online

If you are a Muslim homeschooling family, it can be difficult to find Islamic resources. I will be writing about specific resources you can use to integrate Islamic studies into your homeschooling or after-schooling program. For general homeschooling information and helpful tips, please visit the Families.com Homeschool Blog. The Islamic Waldorf School Online is a subscription-based Islamic curriculum. The site is operated by Kristie Karima Burns, an American revert who operated a Waldorf school in Saudi Arabia. [h]Waldorf in Brief[/h] Developed by Rudolf Steiner, Waldorf is a method of teaching that engages the whole child. Waldorf seeks to actively reach … Continue reading →

Dealing with a Difficult Mother

As we discussed before, the mother is highly respected in Islam. We should treat our mothers with love, affection, and kindness. The ideal mother makes this easy. The ideal mother, whether Muslim or not, has her children’s best interests at heart. This mother loves her children, protects them, nurtures them, and would sacrifice anything for their health and happiness. Yes, it is easy to adore this mother. [h]The Abusive Mother[/h] What if this precious mother was not in your destiny? What if your mother was mean, abusive, or negligent? According to Islam, we should still treat her with kindness. We … Continue reading →

Make Islam Fun!

Most Muslim parents are concerned with how to teach our kids to be good, “modern” citizens without losing their Islamic identity and values. The answer is balance. We, and our children, must take what is good from this world around us and leave what is bad. Likewise, we must absorb the good, peace-loving aspects of true Islam and leave the perverted, radical Islam so prevalent today. Okay, sounds easy enough, but how do we put it into practice? One of the most important things we can do is to play up Islam’s fun, lovely side. It’s too easy to let … Continue reading →

Names for Muslim Girls A – L

Whether you are a new Muslim considering a name change, a Muslim parent expecting a baby girl, or someone interested in names or other cultures, you might be curious about names for Muslim girls. As promised, the next few entries will list some popular Muslim names and their meanings. Although Muslim names can come from any language, many of the names listed are of Arabic origin. Please note that transliterations from Arabic to English can vary and you many see the names spelled differently. [h]”A” Names[/h] Adeela : equal. Aisha : living, prosperous. Name of beloved wife of the Prophet … Continue reading →

What’s In a Muslim Name?

Names help us form our identities and our personalities. A name is the first label we will ever have, the first to describe who we are. A Muslim name must do more than just sound nice; it has to have a beautiful meaning, as well. In fact, the Prophet (PBUH) would often instruct his followers to change their names to names more fitting believers. [h]Should New Muslims Change Their Names?[/h] While it is not a requirement for new Muslims to change their names, many choose to do so. Some change their name because their original name has a negative connotation. … Continue reading →

Toys for Muslim Children

Although Muslim children can play with many of the same toys as their non-Muslim counterparts, sometimes it’s nice to have toys that were made specifically for Muslims. With Islamic toys, we don’t have to worry about inappropriate clothing or language or questionable morals. Here are some links to games, toys, coloring pages, and stories made just for Muslim children: Razanne — Most young girls love dolls and many adore Barbie. Barbie can be fun and educational. However, with her tank tops, mini skirts, bikinis, and lifelong boyfriend, she doesn’t exactly embody Islamic values! Razanne is the Muslim’s answer to Barbie. … Continue reading →