How To Explain The Significance Of Ramadan To Kids

Millions of Muslims are currently observing Ramadan, and some kids just got introduced to it for the first time. Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar and is considered the holiest and blessed month. Fasting during Ramadan is necessary for every Muslim, as it is instructed by the Qur'an. Children might not understand the value of fasting and might see it as a routine. Children need to understand fasting and its importance to make them interested and dedicated to the act.  An easy way to explain is by dividing the talk into sections.

What is Ramadan

Children need to understand the basics of Ramadan to get a full grasp of its significance. Ramadan is a fasting period for Muslims that lasts between 29 to 30 days. It starts when the young moon is sighted and ends with the new moon. Ramadan ends with a festival called Eid Al-Fitr. To observe Ramadan, one needs to fast daily from dawn till dusk. Children need to know about Suhoor (the meal before sunrise) and Iftar (the meal after sunset).

They need to understand that they can't eat food, drink liquid, chew gum, and commit any form of Haram during the fasting period. If any law is violated, the fast becomes invalid for the day, and compensation will be required. The compensation involves; fasting later in the year or giving food to a needy person for each missed day.

Importance of Ramadan

Children need to understand that fasting is a purification technique. It is a way to cleanse the body, mind, and soul from worldly acts. Ramadan is a period of frequent prayers and self-reflection. It helps a person build faith and a stronger relationship with Allah. In addition, they should understand that fasting helps a person understand others and empathize with the poor and hungry. 

What Happens During Ramadan

They should understand that Ramadan is not just a period to abstain from food but also a time to pray, read the Qur'an, self-reflect, be kind and spend time with their loved ones. It is a time to be less hostile and refrain from getting angry and insulting. Teach Children about Fitrana, which is the duty of the head of the household. It is a charitable obligation of all Muslims that involves donation. They should know that though the responsibility is for the head of the house, they can also donate a part of their pocket money.

Who is to Fast

Children are always curious, especially when they notice some people are not partaking in the fast. Children need to know about the people exempted from fasting. They include; children under 14 years, pregnant and breastfeeding women, seriously ill, menstruating females, and the elderly. Though a child below 14 years should not fast, they can partake in the other activities of Ramadan or do a partial one.

After explaining to your child the significance of Ramadan, let them be the ones to decide to fast. You can start training them by cutting off the things they love (like games and TV) during this period. Let them know the importance so they can be faithful during Ramadan.