Speaking to IQNA, Zahra Sharifi emphasized that the foundation of fostering a prayer culture in children begins with the warm and supportive relationship they have with their parents.
"Children learn everything from their parents initially," Sharifi said. "The most critical factor in instilling the culture of prayer in children is the close and loving relationship between the parents and the child. When parents maintain a warm and supportive relationship, the child naturally tends to imitate them, including in their dedication to prayer."
She noted that when parents create a positive emotional bond with their children, they can use that relationship to achieve their educational goals, especially in fostering religious values.
Sharifi pointed out a common mistake that parents often make: they are quick to scold when a child misses a prayer but do not offer enough praise when the child does pray.
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"Parents should focus on encouraging their children whenever they observe them praying," she said. "They should avoid being too strict or issuing orders, as these methods can often backfire."
According to Sharifi, it is crucial for parents to create a positive image in their child's mind by being gentle, supportive, and involved in their activities.
"A child who sees their parents as religious and prayerful, with a warm demeanor and a positive attitude, is more likely to be influenced by that image and follow suit," she explained.
Sharifi stressed the importance of maintaining a positive image in a child’s mind when it comes to religious practices. "If a parent gets angry and punishes their child, then goes to pray, it doesn't create a favorable image of faith in the child's mind," she said. "Instead, it might even discourage them."
She added that positive reinforcement, particularly at a young age, plays a significant role in a child's development. "The younger the child, the more impactful and lasting the effect of positive imagery will be," Sharifi noted.
When asked about the most effective way to encourage children to engage in religious practices like prayer, Sharifi recommended recognizing and rewarding their efforts.
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"When a child prays or fasts, it's essential for parents to notice and praise them," she said. "They can even take a photo, give them a small gift, or simply express their appreciation, making the child feel valued for their good actions."
Sharifi cautioned against superficial encouragement, emphasizing the need to foster intrinsic motivation in children.
"Parents should aim to strengthen their child's internal motivation through genuine praise, not just as a routine or habit," she advised. "Often, parents are more focused on pointing out mistakes rather than celebrating their child's positive actions."
The expert warned against creating an environment where children become resistant to religious practices. She suggested that instead of confronting a child directly when they lie about praying, parents should handle the situation tactfully. "If a child says they've prayed when they haven't, accept their answer and say, 'If you say you've prayed, then I believe you,'" she explained. "This approach encourages the child to reflect on their actions without feeling cornered or defensive."
In addressing the broader context of Islamic lifestyle in shaping a child's religious habits, Sharifi emphasized that these values must be present in everyday family life.
"Until the principles of a religious and Quranic lifestyle are active in the home, and qualities like respect, diligence, and discipline are strengthened in children, we shouldn't expect them to perform prayers or other religious duties consistently," she stated.
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Sharifi underscored that a change in family lifestyle is essential to instill these values. "Parents must model a life based on Islamic and human principles," she said. "As long as our own way of life isn't in line with these values, we cannot expect our children to follow religious practices."
Concluding her thoughts, Sharifi reiterated that parents must first adopt the right lifestyle themselves before they can guide their children. "We must understand that before teaching our children, we need to correct our own behavior and approach to life," she said.
"Only then will our children learn the etiquette and gratitude to God that is reflected in prayer."