Kids as young as 7 years old can begin their first-ever fasting during Ramadan. However, as a parent, it can feel daunting to introduce a new routine to follow for a month.
So, what is the best way to teach children about fasting to get them to accept it?
Read on to find out different fun tips you can use to guide them in their fasting journey during the holy month.
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Having your children join you during this meaningful season is a great bonding experience. In addition, kids will feel accomplished being able to do grown-up things such as praying and having Suhoor together.
Before the season begins, explain to your children the importance of Suhoor and how there are blessings in eating Suhoor. Introduce them to common Suhoor food before the fasting season, such as dates and healthy ingredients, including vegetables, oatmeal, and chicken, to learn their preferences.
Need Suhoor Recipes with full protein to get you energized during Ramadan? Check out Simple Suhoor Recipe For You!
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Kids are always hungry, especially with the amount of energy they have. Hence, fasting should be introduced in stages. Start by encouraging them to skip a meal a day, perhaps during tea time after their school ends.
Once they have started to get the hang of not having their afternoon meal or snack, you can increase the amount of fasting hours. For example, they can fast from noon until sunset.
After they have completed their fast, celebrate their milestone with a hearty meal as you break your fast together.
Instill curiosity in your children by gifting them Ramadan-related books that come with beautifully illustrated scenarios to help them understand their faith.
Books such as “My First Book About Ramadan” by Sara Khan will teach children the joy and meaning behind the holy month and learn to practice the same values as taught by the book.
There are also YouTube educational videos that will provide answers to frequently asked questions such as “Why can’t we eat junk food during Suhoor?”.
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Get handy with art and craft materials by making Ramadan lanterns (also known as Fanoos), crescent moon, and stars. Help kids unleash their creativity by decorating their own masterpieces and hanging them at home to recognize their artwork.
Doing these activities together is a great way to pass the time before breaking your fast for Iftar.
It is important to stay hydrated during fasting, and it is common for kids to prefer other beverages, such as soft drinks. Sugar will make one feel thirsty, so water is the best solution to curb hunger.
Have glasses of water during Suhoor and Iftar to get them into the habit of drinking water. Another option is to have less salty food during these times to reduce dehydration and replace them with fruits and vegetables to sustain their energy.
Ramadan is also the month of giving and a time to help those in need. You can volunteer with your children to help out at a local mosque by collecting donations during prayers.
You can also encourage the kids to donate money to less fortunate communities. This is one way to teach them about Zakat, a mandatory religious contribution to the needy.
With these tips, your kid will be fasting with you in no time! Kids will learn that they can look forward to these activities and have a positive perspective on Ramadan when celebrating together.
Most importantly, encourage the spirit of community, empathy, giving, and spiritual growth so that your children can practice the Muslim faith together.
