In this heartwarming episode of The Deen Show, we welcome back Alia, a young Muslim author who has written four books in her “Things Every Kid Should Know” series, covering smoking, drugs, bullying, and alcohol, with a fifth book on junk food on the way. Alia is a shining example of how Muslim children raised with strong Islamic values can make a positive impact on the world around them, helping other kids avoid harmful behaviors through education and awareness.
Leading by Example: Islamic Parenting and Raising Righteous Children
Alia makes an important point that parents who engage in harmful habits like smoking or drinking set a poor example for their children. Kids are far more likely to imitate what they see at home. Islam places enormous emphasis on parents being role models for their children. The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, taught that every child is born upon the fitrah (natural disposition), and it is the parents who shape their direction.
“If you’re doing it, then your kid is more likely going to have a chance of doing it because they’re watching you. So be a good example — lead by example.”
What Islam Truly Teaches the Youth
- Islam means peace, and Muslims submit to the Creator of peace, bringing harmony to everything around them — plants, animals, and fellow human beings
- The hijab is a choice made out of love for Allah, and Alia began wearing it at age six, following her mother’s example
- Muslim children are taught to be ambassadors of good character, kindness, and justice in their schools and communities
- Islam calls children and adults alike to establish goodness in their homes and societies
“Islam means peace. So when we’re Muslims, we’re submitting to peace and we’re giving peace to the universe, to all around us — to plants, animals, humans — and of course we worship Allah.”
Alia’s story is living proof that Muslim kids who practice Islam are not “radical” — they are compassionate, thoughtful, and driven to make the world a better place. Islam breeds goodness, and when children are raised upon its teachings, the results speak for themselves. Parents are encouraged to visit thingseverykidshouldknow.com to learn more about Alia’s books. And for anyone curious about Islam, the message is clear: it calls every human being to worship the One God, do good for all of mankind, and show mercy to every creature on earth.
