Does the Quran have specific recommendations for children?

The Holy Quran, as a divine guide for all humanity across all times and places, does not directly offer a separate 'manual' or 'guidebook' specifically for children in the modern sense. However, this does not mean that the Quran neglects this vital and future-shaping segment of society. On the contrary, by articulating universal and overarching principles of upbringing, ethics, faith, and human relationships, the Quran provides profoundly valuable and deep guidance for raising children and outlines the responsibilities of parents towards them. These principles, by extension, constitute specific and fundamental recommendations for the children themselves, laying the groundwork for a healthy character and an unwavering faith from an early age. One of the most crucial recommendations inferred from the Quranic verses for children is the reinforcement of belief in the Oneness of God (Tawhid) and familiarity with the fundamental tenets of Islam from a young age. Surah Luqman serves as a prime example of this type of education, where Luqman, with a paternal and loving tone, advises his son to shun polytheism (shirk) and to reflect upon the greatness of the Creator of the universe. These admonitions are not only applicable to Luqman's son in his time but are also guiding principles for every child in every era, ensuring that the roots of faith are firmly established in their hearts through a correct understanding of God's exalted position. Parents bear the responsibility of planting this seed of monotheism in the pure soil of a child's innate disposition (fitra) and nurturing it continuously to grow into a strong, unwavering tree. Furthermore, the Quran places significant emphasis on adhering to good morals and social etiquette, with which children should be acquainted from the very beginning. Teachings such as truthfulness, trustworthiness, patience, kindness, forgiveness, and justice, although seemingly general, play a pivotal role in a child's upbringing. By emulating their parents and the surrounding environment, children grasp these concepts and, by practicing them, develop into virtuous and committed individuals. The Quran repeatedly commands believers to adhere to these values in their lives, which implies that parents must also be practical examples of these values for their children. This modeling is essential for children to internalize these moral principles. Another vital point is the respect for parents and honoring their elevated status. Verses that enjoin kindness to parents and forbid any disrespect towards them, although primarily addressed to adult children, necessitate that this teaching begins in childhood. From the outset, a child must understand that respecting their father and mother is a divine command, and their well-being is contingent upon observing this principle. These teachings not only strengthen family bonds but also sow the seeds of gratitude and humility in a child's heart. Respect for elders, teachers, and generally upholding the rights of others stems from this root and expands. Proper upbringing in this regard lays the foundation for respecting all creation and observing social rights in the future. Moreover, the Quran highlights the importance of acquiring knowledge. The very first divine command to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was "Iqra" (Read), signifying the paramount importance of learning and education in Islam. While this command is not directly for children, parents are obligated to provide opportunities for their children's education and encourage them to seek knowledge. Encouraging critical thinking, questioning, and the pursuit of truth through reading and observation are among the indirect Quranic recommendations for fostering curious and intelligent minds in children. Children who are introduced to the value of knowledge from an early age embark on a path of intellectual and spiritual growth and can play an effective role in society in the future. Teaching acts of worship and familiarizing children with the pillars of faith are also areas parents should address from a young age. Although performing acts of worship is not obligatory for very young children, gradually teaching them about prayer (Salat), fasting (to the extent of their ability), and the concepts of Hajj and Zakat helps them become familiar with their religious duties from childhood and prepares them for adolescence and accountability. The Quran generally emphasizes establishing prayer and giving Zakat, and this emphasis includes educating and training children to perform these obligations. This not only strengthens a child's connection with their Creator but also instills discipline, responsibility, and attention to the needs of others within them. Finally, the Quranic stories recounting the lives of prophets and previous nations are rich and inspiring resources for educating children. The stories of Prophet Yusuf (Joseph), Prophet Musa (Moses), Maryam (Mary), and other revered figures are replete with lessons and admonitions that can convey moral concepts, patience in adversity, reliance on God, and the good outcome of righteous deeds in an engaging and understandable manner to children. These narratives not only stimulate a child's imagination but also engrave fundamental human and divine values in their minds. This indirect method of education and storytelling will have a lasting impact on a child's character and prepare them to face life's challenges. In conclusion, while the Holy Quran does not present "specific recommendations for children" in a separate chapter, it provides a comprehensive and complete framework for raising a righteous, knowledgeable, and committed generation by offering a collection of general ethical, spiritual, and educational principles, and by emphasizing the grave responsibility of parents in their children's upbringing. These principles serve as guiding lights for human welfare, not only for children but for all stages of human life. By correctly applying them, we can raise children who will be successful both in this world and the Hereafter.