1. Treat them like young adults and they will grow up faster
2. Slowly, increase the level of responsibility and independence that they have. Give them more tasks and responsibilities, and as they grow competent, increase it. This will ease them into adulthood.
3. Your role needs to become more like a mentor to them. Have open communication with them and allow them to ask deep questions and challenge your ideals. They need these conservations to reach Yaqeen in their faith.
4. Do not expect perfection from them. When they mess up, guide them back to the paths of repentance and righteousness. They are still learning how to deal with nafs and shaytaan and will make mistakes along the way, just like you.
5. Include them in family discussions on important matters, so they gain experience in the ups and downs of being an adult. These discussions will prepare them for the challenges of the adult world.
6. Allow them space to explore their own ideas and plans (within the boundaries of halal) and give them space to make mistakes and learn from their mistakes. For example, if your teen has a bad business idea, let him start his business and learn from the experience.
7. Have a strong Islamic Studies curriculum for them to study that is age-suitable. Focus on things like morality, chastity, modesty, responsibility, and purification of the soul. These aspects of Islamic Studies are essential at that age.
8. Finally, never stop making dua for them. Do not give up hope in Allah’s Mercy and pray for your children’s guidance every day.
