As salam alaykum sister,

 

Shokran for writing to our live session. I understand that you have two boys ages 16 and 13 who you are raising alone. You do work full time and do your best to keep the home as well as keep your boys on point. You stated that their father is not really involved in their the boys lives, that he has issues of his own. Sister, you are doing the best that you can to create a home-like environment for your family and support them at the same time. This is no easy task! While your older child is doing very well, you are worried about the younger one who is having anger issues.

 

I will kindly suggest sister that you get the boys involved in Islamic activities at the Masjid. A lot of Masjid’s do have groups for boys. They meet once or twice a week and discuss “teen life” in an Islamic context. This may insha’Allah give them great insights (especially your younger one) as well as encourage them make Muslim friendships that will last a lifetime. You may also seek to take them to Islamic events in the community. As Eid is coming up, that is one of our holiday’s that is very special for us as Muslims.

 

It is a joyful time. There are other events that go on in communities such as ice skating, going to the park, sports, movie nights, hiking etc. This will help shape your boys’ ideals regarding creating a family conducive home-life based upon Islamic principles.

 

I would also consider insha’Allah finding a Muslim male Mentor for your youngest son. It can make all the difference in the world. There are Islamic counseling centers wherein they do pair up a male with a boy, and a female with a girl when there is a need such as a single parent home wherein the child needs some extra assistance. As we are one community/family, it can be a great help insha’Allah.

 

If your younger son continues with his angry outbursts I will kindly suggest sister that insha’Allah that you do get him into counseling. He may be dealing with some issues related to the absence of his father or he may be getting bullied at school or something else that you are not aware of that is causing this behavior. All children go through different emotions at this age sister. Some handle it well (like your older son) and some experience difficulties such as your younger son. I would kindly suggest addressing it now that he is younger, rather than waiting for it to possibly get worse as he gets older.

 

I’d also kindly suggest that you as well, try to get involved with the sisters at the Masjid and do some fun social activities with them. I know you are very tired when you get home from work, it’s hard. However, if you also need to have “self” time-which is taking care of you too.

 

Sister, you are doing a wonderful job. You are a single mom raising two boys and working full-time. The above suggestions are conducive to the growth of both boys and as the family as a whole. This, in turn, will insha’Allah, help create a warm, loving Islamic home. I know this is not a not easy road, may Allah bless you for all of your sacrifice and hard work.

 

Insha’Allah both of your boys will turn out to be very fine young Muslim men. May Allah swt make it easy on your sister, you are in our prayers.