By: Aasia Nadhira
As a parent, the start of a new school year can bring a mix of excitement and anxiety—not just for your child, but for you as well. The “back-to-school blues” are real, and they can make the transition from summer break to school life challenging. But with hope, rooted in our Islamic values, we can ease this transition for our children and ourselves. In the roles I enjoy as a teacher, a mother, and a life coach, I understand the emotions that come with this time of year. Here are three practical ways to help your family navigate this season with confidence and peace.
1. Start Your Day with Adhkaar
There’s something incredibly reassuring about beginning the day with dua. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us to begin our mornings by praying to and remembering Allah through morning adhkaar. This simple act of turning to Allah can bring immense peace, grounding both you and your child in the knowledge that you’re not alone in facing the day ahead.
Before your child heads off to school, take a moment to make dua together. Ask for Allah’s guidance, protection, and ease throughout the day. This practice not only instills a sense of spiritual security in your child but also reinforces their understanding that Allah is always with them, no matter what challenges they may face.
2. Create a Positive Morning Routine
Mornings can be hectic, but establishing a positive routine can set a calming tone for the day. Start with sharing a healthy breakfast together—this is a great time to connect, share kind words, and mentally prepare for the day ahead.
Incorporate a few minutes of light physical activity, like a walk or some stretching, to help energize both you and your child. As you prepare to leave for school, take a moment to remind your child of the importance of seeking knowledge in Islam. A simple but powerful way to do this is to say “Rabbi zidni ‘ilma” (My Lord, increase me in knowledge)as they are going to school. Let them know that their efforts in school are not just for academic success but are also a way of fulfilling their religious duties. This perspective can transform their feelings of anxiety into a sense of purpose and motivation.
3. Stay Connected Throughout the Day
Maintaining a strong emotional connection with your child can significantly alleviate their back-to-school blues. You don’t need to hover, but small gestures throughout the day can make a big difference. When your child(ren) comes home, create a safe and open environment for them to share their day with you. Listen to their stories, validate their feelings, and offer your support. Acknowledge their emotions, whether they’re happy, anxious, or anything in between. This helps build their confidence and teaches them to process their feelings in a healthy way.
Encourage them to turn to Allah in moments of difficulty, whether through making dua or reading a few verses from the Quran. This practice not only strengthens their spiritual foundation but also teaches them to rely on their faith when navigating life’s challenges.
The back-to-school transition can be tough, but with a few mindful strategies, it’s something that can be managed with ease. By incorporating dua, establishing a positive morning routine, and staying emotionally connected, you can help your child—and yourself—embrace the new school year with positivity and faith. As Muslim parents, our role extends beyond just academic support. We are here to nurture our children in their relationship with Allah as a priority. May this school year be filled with growth, knowledge, and ease for all our children, Aameen.
About Aasia Nadhira:
Aasia Nadhira is a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional with a profound commitment to fostering healthy relationships within the Muslim community. Already holding a Master’s degree in Psychology from the University of Madras, Aasia is currently enhancing her expertise by pursuing a second Masters in Family Therapy from Touro University in California.
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