Although it is important to note that this process will...

Although it is important to note that this process will continue throughout his forming years, the first few years will form the foundation and base of his character. During this time he is almost continuously with the parents (except for those who are sent to day-cares etc.). Later on, school, friends and other activities will take him away form the parents for lengthy periods of time.

It must also be realized that the role of the mother during this time is more important than the role of the father, as most of the time is spent with her. Aspects of Training Many parents would like to train their children in the right way. But they are unsure of what exactly they should do in order to carry out comprehensive and useful training. The following are some aspects of training every parent should cover. Guidance A child must be guided towards what is right.

This includes teaching of beliefs and actions of religion, good manners, and moral and social values. The child should be taught about healthy ways of living, having good relationships with others, living a useful life in terms of helping and serving others. This type of training is done through talking to the child, showing a good example, sending him to Madrasah and other places of religious learning, involvement with the religious community, and an awareness of the Muslim Ummah.

The age and ability of the child must be kept in mind. Parents can use the help of teachers, relatives, community members, books, and other useful resources for this aspect of training. Self-Control A child should be taught that a human being is different from an animal. The value of the Aql cannot be underestimated and the child must learn to control his desires and wants. Emotions like anger, jealousy, greed, selfishness, etc. will all raise their ugly head.

It is the duty of parents to deal with these emotions and help the child control them. Thus it is wrong for parents to give in to every demand of the child, or to allow him to vent his anger when he is thwarted. It is part of training to help a child deal with disappointment and failure, to prevent him from being egoistic and selfish. Many children these days feel the world should be at their feet, and their needs should be met on demand.

Even when possible, it is wrong to give a child all he wants for it will create a personality that cannot bear denial. Change Although it is true that children inherit traits such as shyness, fear, etc.