Every family has beautiful and unique ways of learning and sharing traditions - here’s a list of five extra tips and resources we thought you might find helpful when teaching your kids about Ramadan and Islam.
Build a habit of doing good deeds every day of Ramadan
Children are never too young to learn! One idea we loved from multiculturalkidblogs is a ‘Good Deed’ jar to be filled each day of Ramadan. Make a special jar together with your kids (your creativity is the limit here), take 30 pieces of paper, and write down good deeds together with your kids so they feel a sense of ownership and involvement. If you need ideas, you can find them here.
Knowledge through storytelling
Storytelling is a great way to teach while having fun at the same time. You can find a list of 25 great Ramadan books here. There are also some great stories you can tell your kids about Ramadan itself:
The story of how the Quran was revealed
The victory of Battle of Badr
Fatah Meccah
The life and legacy of Kadijah (May Allah be pleased with her)
Some other great resources you can use are Quranic stories for kids and Omar & Hana.
Building a deeper connecting with Allah
Du’a is one of the best ways for us to build a connection with Allah. Why not take this opportunity to build a good habit this Ramadan? Create and decorate a Ramadan du’a journal together with your kids. For each day, ask your kid what would they like, what would they like to complain about, and even what they du’a they would like to make for someone else.By doing this, you’re building a daily habit for your child, as well as reminding them that they can turn to Allah for anything. A dua journal is best made together with your kids, but you can also buy one here.
Teaching by spreading the message of Islam
Let’s be honest - for many of us, Ramadan is also about special food. The uniqueness of these dishes is a perfect opportunity to share food with your non-muslim friends and neighbors. Bake cookies, make your favorite dishes and invite your kids’ non-Muslim friends over for a meal. Make sure that your children know that part of our responsibility in Ramadan - and any time of the year - is to be kind to everyone. Let your kid feel a sense of pride about Ramadan and how it brings him or her closer to their friends.
Donating together with your kids
Ramadan reminds us of the challenges and struggles of other people. Sit down with your kids and talk about what they would like to give away or donate to people less fortunate. If you would want to do this online, you can join our automated giving program, browse various campaigns with your kids, and click the heart on the top corner of the campaign to add it to your Give List. From our family to yours, may you have a month full of special time with your loved ones, spiritual growth, and blessings.
Ramadan is better together.
Ameera Aslam is passionate about telling stories about incredible Muslims around the world and loves working with her sincere and passionate colleagues. Outside of LaunchGood, she is an award-winning poet and a mountain lover. You can buy her book at www.desiringlightbook.com.
