Building Children's Character By Sheikh Muhammad Salih Al-
Munajjid Many people are concerned about their children’s
unstable character and the effects of luxury on their
personalities. How can we introduce strength and honour into our
children’s character? The issue referred to in the question is
one of the most serious problems in raising children nowadays.
Some of the Islamic solutions to this problem and ways of
instilling strength and honour in our children’s character are
listed below: Takniyyah (using the kunya or patronymic in
addressing children: Calling a young boy "Abu Foolaan" ("Father
of so-and-so) or a young girl "Umm Foolaan" ("Mother of so-and-
so") will make the child feel more responsible and grown up, so
he will become more mature and will feel above normal
childishness. The Prophet (Peace & Blessings of Allaah be upon
Him) used to give kunyas to children. Anas (may Allaah be
pleased with him) said: "The Prophet (peace and blessings of
Alaah be upon him) was the best of people in attitude and