While talking with her neighbor, Gonzalez explained that she uses the Christmas holiday to explain again to her children about Islam and why they choose it for their faith. She said that has served to solidify their identity as Muslims.
“My children know we follow Islam, and opening gifts from their family members isn’t going to change that,” she said.
“I told my neighbor he should rethink trying to make Santa such a taboo subject in his home one day when he has kids. I think he could have some problems if he makes such a big deal about it.”
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Christmas & Kids
Muslim parents often have lots to say about how to approach the Christmas holidays and the endless stream of festivities that seem to happen every year, but what do the kids think?
Thirteen-year-old Amin Salman said it’s not such a big deal and that he’s never felt jealous of other kids or his friends for having loads of presents to open on Christmas Day.
“It really doesn’t have any effect on me,” Amin said. “I do Christmas activities at school, but I don’t celebrate the day or the meaning behind it.”
He does, however, have some advice for parents who are worried their children might feel left out.
“Maybe take them out for a fun day and just do stuff with them,” Amin suggested.
His sister Samar Salman, 7, agreed that not celebrating Christmas is no reason to be envious of others.
“I don’t get jealous because I like our holiday that’s called Ramadan because you’re feeding your soul and connecting with Allah,” she said.
Seems the kids are OK!
This article is from our archive, originally published in 2021, and highlighted now for its importance
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