Many grandparents learnt the Quran in a strict environment and teach the same way out of love. But a harsh style can make some children dread the Quran.
What to avoid
- Correcting the grandparent in front of your child.
- Stopping all contact with the Quran through them.
- Telling your child that Grandad is “wrong”.
Talk privately and kindly
A script: “Abba, the children love reading with you. Their teacher says they learn best at the moment when it’s calm and they get lots of praise. Could you help us with that?” Mention the teacher, so it is not personal.
Give them a role that fits
| Role | Why it works |
|---|---|
| Listening to revision | Gentle; they hear the child recite what they already know |
| Telling Prophet stories | Grandparents are wonderful storytellers |
| Reciting together | The child copies a familiar, loved voice |
| Responding to the adhan together | A shared, simple act |
| Celebrating milestones | A proud grandparent is a huge motivator |
Keep correction with the teacher
Agree that new lessons and corrections come from the teacher, so the child has one consistent method.
If your child is upset
Explain gently: “Grandad loves the Quran so much and wants you to read it perfectly. Let’s show him how well you’re doing.”
Teacher’s tip: invite the grandparent to sit in on an online lesson. Seeing the teacher’s gentle method often changes their approach more than any conversation.
Related: How grandparents can help with Arabic.
