10 Things Madrasahs Really Want Parents to Know

As the long summer break comes to an end and our children return to madrasah, there are a few things we’d really love to share with you, as parents.

1. Your Children Are Amazing, MaashaAllah

Wallah, there’s truly nothing like seeing your children walk into the madrasah, full of curiosity, energy, and potential. We feel an immense sense of happiness just from their presence. We see them as guests of Allah and Rasulullah ﷺ.

I remember visiting the founder of our Darul Uloom, our beloved teacher Qari Yaqoob Saheb hafizahullah, during our final week after 10 years of study. He gave us advice that has stayed with me ever since. He urged us to see every child as precious, for we never know which one may become the means of our entry into Jannah. Each child carries infinite potential, who knows which of them may grow to be the next Abu Hanifa (RA) or Imam Ghazali (RA)? Every day you entrust your children to us is a day of blessing. Jazaakumullahu khayran.

2. Everything We Do Is to Protect Your Child’s Iman

Iman is one of the greatest gifts to us from Allah. It is in the heart, not apparent, and needs nurturing and strengthening. Our belief in Allah, in the unseen, in the Qur’an, and in the Hereafter. Our main goal is to strengthen your child’s Iman and connection to Rasulullah ﷺ and the Qur’an. This protects them in the Akhirah and brings goodness in this world.

The Hadith that really gets us going is where the Prophet ﷺ warned of a time when people would wake up with Iman but lose it by evening. Preparing our children to remain firm in such times is the very purpose of what we do.

3. We Wish We Had the Same Resources as Schools

We dream of classrooms filled with resources, a teaching assistant in every class, SEND specialists, finance officers, and admin staff to answer queries quickly. In reality, many of our staff are fulfilling the roles of ten people combined!

And yet, Alhamdulillah, children are safe, learning, and growing in their Deen. Think of it like a parent doing everything possible for their children despite having limited means. That is exactly how madrasahs operate, relying on Allah, effort, and barakah rather than abundance of resources.

4. Madrasah Teachers Are Selfless

Many teachers come straight from 6–9 hour workdays to teach your children. They leave behind deadlines, stress, and fatigue, yet they greet students with energy and care. Few people would take on such a role for very modest pay, yet our teachers do it for Allah, for the Deen, for the Ummah, and for your children.

Some even contribute their own money to fund activities and outings. Their devotion is a reminder that this is not a job, it is a form of khidmah.

5. We’re Not Perfect, But We Try Our Best

We don’t have a magic wand. Not every lesson will instantly transform a child’s character or Ibadah. Guidance is in Allah’s hands.

We teach, nurture, pray, and rely on Allah. With patience and consistency, even the most challenging children can grow in their Deen, just as we saw with some of the greatest companions, Umar ibn Khattab (RA) and Khalid ibn Walid (RA).

6. It’s More Than Just Completing the Qur’an or Memorising Duas

Yes, reciting the Qur’an with proper Tajweed is important, and so is memorising Duas and Surahs. But more important is understanding and connecting with it. Just as children learn to read at different paces in school, they will complete Qur’an at different rates.

A child who connects with Allah and His Rasul ﷺ, understands the Sunnah, and gains confidence in their Deen is achieving something far greater than multiple khatams without understanding.

7. Parents Can Add Value

The first teachers of your children are, of course, you. Role-model the values we teach, at home. Talk about the lessons, live the Deen, and demonstrate the connection with Allah in your everyday life.

Parents who continue to study alongside their children, through adult classes or personal learning, can significantly enhance their child’s journey of studying. The learning environment at home is as important as what happens in the madrasah.

8. Please Do Get Involved

We understand that life is busy. Parents are juggling work, family, and personal commitments. But your involvement matters immensely. Attend parent meetings, workshops, or even drop by for a quick visit. Talk to the headteacher, attend a Jalsa, or simply ask your child about their day.

I remember attending my child’s school assembly once and being amazed by the turnout. When it comes to madrasahs, we rarely see that same level of parental engagement. Your presence communicates that your child’s Deen matters.

9. Madrasah Is a Lifelong Journey

Even older children or university students benefit from attending madrasah once a week. Many madrasahs offer tailored classes for students sitting exams, but even a weekly connection with the Masjid helps them stay rooted in Deen. Once the connection is lost, it can take years to rebuild.

Our Sheikh ul Hadith Mufti Inayathullah hafizahullah used to emphasise that children often develop the ability to properly grasp the teachings of Deen after age 16, yet many sadly leave madrasah before then. Continuing their journey, even part-time, will keep them on the right path.

10. We’re Here to Support You

Finally, we want parents to know that everything we do is for your children. We are not here for money, but to serve the next generation of the Ummah. We are not perfect, so if issues arise, please communicate with us. Working together ensures we can create the best environment for your children.

Lastly, I would like to share this beautiful Hadith with you:

Abu Umamah reported: The Prophet ﷺ said, “Whoever goes to the mosque, for no reason but to learn goodness or teach others, he will have a reward like a pilgrim completing the Hajj.”

Every day your child attends madrasah, they are earning the reward of Hajj, and you share in that reward.

May Allah bless our children with firm Iman, love for His Qur’an and Rasul ﷺ. May He reward you, as parents, for every step you take to support their journey.