By Lily Maznah Muas
The much awaited month of Ramadan is soon approaching. As we eagerly prepare ourselves for the fasting month, let us invite our children to join in the preparation. The question that parents tend to ask is “How do I introduce Ramadan to my children?”.
For children who have not reached puberty yet, it is not compulsory for them to fast. However you can start introducing them to the meaning and virtues of Ramadan. Let them feel our excitement and gratefulness for being able to celebrate this blessed month together. There are many ways on how we can introduce Ramadan to young children. Here are some tips that may be useful to you.
Photo from Alimkids Putra Heights
Find Out About Ramadan Together.
Ramadan is indeed a special month for Muslims. It is the month of many blessings. Extra prayers are held and the practice of Sadaqah or charity is rewarded many-folds during this month. Find storybooks related to Ramadan or videos online that share about this special month.
Share What We Do In Ramadan.
Children will be curious on why are we not allowed to eat or drink during Ramadan. Explain to them that fasting is a command from Allah, and it is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. This means, as Muslims, we must obey what Allah has asked us to do, as He Created us and He Knows what is best for us. While we cannot eat during the day, we can eat as usual at night until early morning, which means we still have energy and nutrients to keep our body strong. Children may ask if we will feel hungry when we fast. Explain to them that this is one way for us to understand how poor people feel. By fasting, we can put ourselves in their shoes and feel empathy for them. Teach your children to not be wasteful and to think of other children who have no food to eat, before they throw away their food or drinks.
The Month of Giving
Ramadan is not just about fasting. It is the month of giving. This is a great month to introduce children to charity work. There are many organizations making charity activities to the less fortunate in Ramadan. Share with the children how they can do to help.
During Ramadan, Zakat is being collected too. Explain to them what is Zakat and where the money goes to. Share with them that this is act of giving, where those with extra wealth give away some portion to help others who are in need.
The Blessings of Lailatul-Qadr
Lailatul-Qadr is a special night where Allah sends His blessings down to us through the Malaikah (Angels). Share with the children about this special night which is one of the last ten nights of Ramadan. Encourage them to do zikir, read the Quran and make doa together. The last ten days are usually the most challenging as it is close to the finishing line and the excitement of Eid ul Fitri could overshadow Lailatul Qadr itself. Thus, it is important for us parents to keep focused, so the children will follow suit.
Celebrate with Eid-ul-Fitri.
Eid Mubarak! Selamat Hari Raya! These are the much awaited days for children, especially. Reward the children for the efforts they have done in Ramadan. Let them know that Allah is pleased with them for trying their best to reap the rewards of Ramadan. As we celebrate Eid, remind the children of the virtues of Ramadan that they learnt, and strive to continue living them for the rest of the year.
Download our FREE Ramadan Chart & Ramadan Journal here:
https://alimkids.com/ramadan-downloads/
Wishing everyone Ramadan Kareem!