AS a kid, I vividly remember Ramadan as a very special time of year. Waking up extra early to have Suhoor (early morning breakfast) with the family, trying not to fall asleep at the table while having a bowl of cornflakes.
The day would practically speed by before my mama (grandmother) would call us in from playing outside so that we could take plates of cakes and treats to the neighbours. The kitchen would smell amazing, the smell of freshly sugared koeksisters wafting down the passage, the familiar bubble of oil as she fried samoosas, making our mouths water.
Throwing on a scarf, my cousins and I would argue over which house to go to first, knowing which aunties would give us something extra special when we got there. When it was time to break our fast, the table would be laden with vegetable soup and other treats, but first, a sip of water and a date. Once we had eaten and our tummies were full, my grandfather would hurry us along to get to the mosque for late-night prayers (Taraweeh). The air would feel different as we stood in the mosque, almost like it was filled with magic.
During the covid pandemic, our children were deprived of many of these traditions that are formed around gathering in unity, but, this has meant we needed to be creative and find traditions of our own.
Here I share some tips on how to do it in your own home:
Decorate your home
If you are crafty, create a cute little Ramadan banner, or dedicate a section just for all things Ramadaan This really highlights the importance of the month to younger children as they can physically see the celebration in the lights and decorations. It does not need to be an expensive exercise, some balloons and dates are perfect, or, if you are stuck with ideas, check out Lunar Learners for easy amazing ideas.
Invest in Ramadan books
Growing up, it was really difficult to find books that you could relate to, today there are hundreds of stories specifically made for Muslim children, that are easy for them to read and understand. By creating a little corner of these books, you allow them access to read up about the month and see how others celebrate Ramadan all around the world. A favourite in our home is My Ramadan Dua Book by Farzana Rahman as it is a listen-and-learn book. It includes a sound section that you can press as you read the story that plays in both English and Arabic, helping your children to learn the different prayers that need to be said. If you are struggling to find these books, why not check out Suhayla Kids, not only do they have options for children from every age group, but they have really good books for you as a parent as well.
Showcase the power of Charity
Ramadaan is not only about abstaining from food and water but rather a month of sacrifice and charity. Good ways to showcase this is by signing up for food drives at your local mosque, or if your children are too young to physically help out, buy some fruit and allow them to sort it into packets for you to drop off at an orphanage or old age home. By including them in the act of charity, they will have a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made during the month of Ramadan.
Encourage Fasting during Ramadaan
If your children are old enough to fast or want to, allow them to fast, but DO NOT force it. By creating an understanding of why they are fasting, you are building a better foundation for them to carry on into adulthood. Fasting is NOT compulsory for children, but do not discourage them if they want to be a part of it. Provide them with special treats at the end of a fasting day, even if it is only half a day, you can do this by either using an advent calendar or maybe a big present on the day of Eid. All children love treats after a day of fasting, the grown-ups too!
Let them help
The hour before Iftaar is manic, with having to ensure everything is ready so that everyone can break their fast on time. Trust me, as a mom of two little boys, it gets crazy. However, I am learning to include them in the prep as well, even if it means asking them to cut up some fruit for the table or setting up the plates for everyone. It helps them be involved and makes the month that much more meaningful.
Ramadan is such a special time for Muslims all around the world and we should celebrate every day of it as time goes by so quickly. Wishing all a blessed month of Ramadan with an abundance of blessings!
THIS ARTICLE SUPPLIED BY FAZIELA HARRIS-DAVIDS
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