The Prophet Muhammad used varieties of techniques of teaching and educating, which included the following:
Illustrative parables
A parable is a short fictitious story that illustrates a moral attitude or a religious principle. Parables have been used throughout the course of history by prophets and learned men. I came across one article on Christian teachings which stated that the Bible contains many parables, which explain heavenly principles using earthly objects. Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) said: I heard the Messenger of Allah saying: Behold! Can any dirt remain on the body of any one of you if there were a river at his door in which he washed himself five times daily? They said: No dirt would remain on his body. He (bpuh) said: That is like the five prayers by which Allah obliterates sins (reported by Muslim).
Another example is as reported in Mishkaat "Rasulullah (bpuh) said: By Allah, this world in comparison to the hereafter is nothing but as though one of you dipped his finger in the sea. So ponder how much of sea water, the finger returns with." Translated as "Perumpaan dunia dengan akhirat adalah kalian mencelupkan jari kalian ke laut, kemudian diangkat, lihatlah dunia hanya air yang ada di jari tersebut."
Narrative stories
Story telling is a brilliant, enjoyable, and effective method to teach children beliefs, values, and morals. This is particularly true for young children who have short attention spans and require attention-holding interactions. The Prophet (bpuh) often used this method with his Companions. Well, who doesn't love story telling?
Making oaths
At times, the Prophet (bpuh) would gain a person's attention by means of an oath. This is a valuable technique, particularly for the purpose of emphasizing significant concepts. Abu Shurayh reported that the Prophet (bpuh) said: By Allah. he does not believe! By Allah, he does not believe By Allah, he does not believe! It was said: Who is that person, O Allah's Messenger? He answered: that person is he whose neighbor does not feel safe from his evil.
Gradualness
Understanding the complexities and difficulties of life, Prophet Muhammad (bpuh) took a gradual approach in teaching several of the principles of the religion. This was most often used in the prohibition of social evils such as alcohol, but it can also be applied to commandments as well. The rationale for this method is to take the time needed to change hearts and minds through persuasion and education, rather than simply imposing rules and laws. This will ensure that children accept the customs of Islams by their own choice, rather than being forced to accept them. Practical examples of application may include wearing the hijab, learning how to pray correctly, fasting during Ramadan, and so forth.
Offering a viable alternative
When correcting people's mistakes, the Prophet (bpuh) would offer a feasible alternative to the inappropriate behavior of the individual. Doing this saved the person from embarrassment and reduced the likelihood that s/he would be resistant to change.
Paying attention to inherent aspects in human nature
The Prophet (bpuh) understood the nature of human beings and the natural feelings and emotions that they are likely to experience. For this reason, he was patient with other people's faults or improper conduct. This concept can certainly be applied in the case of children who often act through natural instincts.
These are some of examples given in the book I currently read, 'Nurturing Eeman in Children' by Dr Aisha Hamdan. Parenting however is not an easy task. No matter how knowledgeable we are in parenting, the strength to endure this journey is in Allah's will. There were times when we lose patience, when we were too lazy to get up from the couch when they needed us to switch on the bathroom's light, and so yes, only Allah who can grant us all of these good traits. May Allah grant us the steadfast and understanding.
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