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Help Me Explain Ramadan to My Kids

15 March, 2023
Q Asalamu alaikum,

I am a mom of 3 (ages 11, 8, 5). Their school mates always ask them about Ramadan and fasting that sometimes they can't answer properly.

How can I explain the true meaning of fasting to them and make them confident about their religion and rituals?

And should I encourage them (11 years and 8 years ) to fast or this is too early?

Answer

In this counseling answer:

Teach your children the beautiful obligation and blessings of Ramadan in a way that is comprehensive

Ask them what are the most frequent questions they are asked and go over simple answers which they can readily respond with.

Have them practice with you. Ask some questions and listen to their responses as if it were a role play.


As-salamu alaykum sister,

I am not an Islamic Scholar, however, I would suggest that insha’Allah you teach your children the beautiful obligation and blessings of Ramadan in a way that is comprehensive, yet in a way that they can understand and reiterate to their schoolmates.

Perhaps you can ask them what are the most frequent questions they are asked and go over simple answers which they can readily respond with.

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Have them practice with you. Ask some questions and listen to their responses as if it were a role play.

Help Me Explain Ramadan to My Kids - About Islam

Also, if they are asked a question that is too in-depth for them, it is okay for them to say they do not have the answer but they will ask and give them the answer tomorrow. This is also a great way to teach your children the preparations and benefits of giving dawah.

Regarding fasting, while the usual age for fasting is when a child reaches puberty, but if the younger ones want to try fasting alhamdulillah let them try! It is a blessing.

Salam

***

Disclaimer: The conceptualization and recommendations stated in this response are very general and purely based on the limited information provided in the question. In no event shall AboutIslam, its counselors or employees be held liable for any damages that may arise from your decision in the use of our services.

Read more:

https://aboutislam.net/counseling/ask-about-parenting/child-development/teach-kids-ramadan-isnt-just-eating/
About Aisha Mohammad
Aisha has a PhD in psychology, an MS in public health and a PsyD. Aisha worked as a Counselor/Psychologist for 12 years at Geneva B. Scruggs Community Health Care Center in New York. She has worked with clients with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, panic disorder, trauma, and OCD. She also facilitated support groups and provided specialized services for victims of domestic violence, HIV positive individuals, as well youth/teen issues. Aisha is certified in Mindfulness, Trauma Informed Care, Behavioral Management, Restorative Justice/ Healing Circles, Conflict Resolution, Mediation, and Confidentiality & Security. Aisha is also a Certified Life Coach, and Relationship Workshop facilitator. Aisha has a part-time Life Coaching practice in which she integrates the educational concepts of stress reduction, mindfulness, introspection, empowerment, self love and acceptance and spirituality to create a holistic healing journey for clients. Aisha is also a part of several organizations that advocates for prisoner rights/reentry, social & food justice, as well as advocating for an end to oppression & racism. In her spare time, Aisha enjoys her family, photography, nature, martial arts classes, Islamic studies, volunteering/charity work, as well as working on her book and spoken word projects.