Maintaining equality between children

Parents and grandparents are encouraged to maintain equality amongst their children and grandchildren by not distinguishing between boys and girls in any form whatever: whether in giving them something, buying clothes, giving alms or even in showing affection (in hugs, kisses, etc.). The same principal applies to the treatment of both parents and younger brothers and sisters.
Failure to observe such equality is undesirable. An exception may be in cases when a child or sibling is experiencing material need, is distinguished by certain noble qualities, by religious knowledge or notable proficiency in something. Then favoring an individual young person is not undesirable.
If a child or grandchild should disobey parents or grandparents, for the purpose of instruction, one may neglect equality and deprive them of any kind of encouragement. Parents are even obliged to resort to this, if they are sure that the reward can be used by children in sin.
Sources:
- [¹] Tuhfat al Muhtaj, vol. 6, p. 308
- [²] Hashiya al Bujairami, vol. 3, p. 270
- [³] Hashiya I`anat at Talibin, vol. 3, p. 182