Ramadan is a month of reflection, spirituality, and togetherness. It is a time when families come together to break their fasts, share meals, and strengthen their bonds with each other and with Allah. For parents, it is also an opportunity to instill the values of love, empathy, and acceptance in their children and to bring them into the excitement and spirit of Ramadan.
One of the most important aspects of Ramadan is the sense of community that it fosters. Muslims around the world come together to fast, pray, and share in the blessings of the holy month. This sense of togetherness is especially important for children, who thrive on the love and support of their families and communities. As parents, it is our responsibility to ensure that our children feel included in the celebrations and traditions of Ramadan.
One way to do this is by leading by example. Children learn by watching and imitating their parents, so it is important to model the behavior that we want them to emulate. This means making an effort to attend mosque, praying together as a family, reading Quran, and engaging in acts of kindness and charity. By demonstrating the importance of these values, we can help our children to internalize them and make them a part of their own lives.
Another important aspect of bringing children into the spirit of Ramadan is through education. Children are naturally curious and eager to learn, so it is important to provide them with opportunities to explore their faith and learn about the traditions and rituals of Ramadan. This can be done through reading books together, watching videos, or by celebrating with other families who make different meals, or speak different languages. This also shows them al Ummra – that with all the incredible diversity of the muslim people, we are all the same Ummra, reading the same Quran and fasting under the same moon.
Reading is one of the best ways to introduce children to the teachings of Islam and to help them develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Quran. There are many excellent books available for children of all ages that focus on the themes of Ramadan and the Quran. This Ramadan we will be giving you some reviews on some of our favorite books for kids. These books not only encourage their love for Allah but also present them with a representation of themselves in media which they can look up to. This is incredibly important for young children, and for many children growing up in diaspora or with a mixed non-muslim community books like these give them a strong sense of identity and connection to Ummra. Some of the best books for young children include “It’s Ramadan, Curious George” by Hena Khan and “My First Ramadan” by Karen Katz. For older children, “Ramadan Moon” by Na’ima B. Robert and “The Story of the Holy Prophet Muhammad” by Maulana Abu Zafar Ahmad Ansari are excellent choices.
In addition to reading, it is important to involve children in the celebrations and rituals of Ramadan. This can include helping with the preparation of iftar meals, participating in mosque activities, and donating to charity. By involving children in these activities, we can help them to develop a sense of pride and ownership in their faith and to feel connected to their community.
Ultimately, the key to bringing children into the spirit of Ramadan is through love, empathy, and acceptance. By creating a safe and nurturing environment where children can explore their faith and develop their own relationship with Allah, we can help them to grow into confident and compassionate adults who are committed to living a life of purpose and service. This Ramadan, let us all commit to bringing our families closer together and to strengthening our bonds with Allah and with each other