Suddenly, that toy became priceless!

Assalam alaykum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh

For months, my child’s toy car sat untouched. But the moment a friend picked it up, it suddenly became the most valuable thing in the house!

Sound familiar?

This is the Law of Perceived Value. We assign worth based on perception, not reality.

As parents, it is our responsibility to shape our children’s understanding of true value through the lens of Islam.

How to instill the right perception of value in your child:

1️⃣ Define value through Islamic principles

Children mirror what we prioritize.

If we overemphasize material success, they will chase status. But if we nurture a love for ‘ilm (knowledge), akhlaq (character), and taqwa (God-consciousness), they will recognize that true wealth lies in faith and righteousness.

2️⃣ Frame their priorities with hikmah (wisdom)

A child values what feels meaningful

If we treat Qur’an recitation as a chore but celebrate worldly achievements, we unintentionally shape their priorities. Instead, present acts of ibadah as noble pursuits filled with barakah and joy, making them a natural part of daily life.

3️⃣ Model Gratitude Over Materialism

The Prophet ﷺ said, “Richness is not having many possessions. Rather, true richness is the richness of the soul.” (Bukhari & Muslim).

Encourage children to appreciate what they have instead of constantly longing for more.Gratitude shifts their perspective from “I need more” to “Alhamdulillah, I have enough.”

4️⃣ Encourage value-based friendships

Children absorb the priorities of those around them.

Guide them toward friendships that uplift their deen, nurture their character, and reinforce the values you instill at home.

The Prophet ﷺ said, “A person is upon the religion of his close friend, so let each of you look at whom he befriends.” (Abu Dawood).

5️⃣ Anchor their self-worth in the akhirah

The Prophet ﷺ taught, “The most beloved of people to Allah is the one who brings the most benefit to others.” (Al-Muʻjam al-Awsaṭ).

Teach children that their worth isn’t in what they own but in the impact they create through service, kindness, and devotion to Allah.

What silent lessons is your child learning from what you praise and prioritize?

At MYND YOUR CHILD, we help parents nurture children who value faith, character, and purpose, because what they perceive as valuable today will define who they become tomorrow.