If there’s one thing kids universally love, it’s a celebration.
And when it comes to celebrations in my household, Christmas has always had the upper hand.
Wrapped in a perfect package of twinkling lights, presents under a tree, countdown calendars, and an air of excitement that makes the wait feel just as special as the day itself.
But what about Ramadan?
Traditionally, Ramadan has been introduced to children as a time of self-discipline, reflection, and worship.
It’s deeply meaningful, of course, but doesn’t always translate to the kind of wide-eyed excitement that little ones thrive on.
However, this year, with my kids being more aware, we’re changing that.
We’re making Ramadan magical, creating new family traditions that build anticipation, excitement, and joy! All while still honouring the beauty of the holy month.
Because why should only one festive season get all the fun?
Turning Our Home into a Ramadan Wonderland
Nothing gets children into the spirit of a celebration quite like transforming their environment.
Many homes light up during Christmas.
Similarly, this year, we’re making sure our home carries the warmth and joy of Ramadan.
The glow of fairy lights will bring a soft, cosy ambience.
On the other hand, battery-operated candles will add a peaceful touch.
All of these will create sense of calm and reflection.
A Ramadan countdown calendar will become a key part of our décor, offering small daily gestures that the kids can look forward to.
Alongside it, we’ll be hanging decorative lanterns and ornaments, adding a magical feel to the house.
Creating a dedicated Ramadan corner will also help set the tone for the month.
It’ll be a space where they can find books, a little prayer area, and a simple activity chart that helps them engage with the spirit of Ramadan in a way that feels fun and interactive.
Setting the Screen Time Vibe for Ramadan
Instead of the usual cartoons, we’re pivoting towards shows that introduce Ramadan in a way that children can understand and enjoy.
There’s something powerful about seeing characters they love engaging in the traditions of Ramadan. From fasting and preparing for iftar, to learning about kindness and patience.
It normalises these values for them and makes the month feel less like an obligation. Instead, more like an exciting, shared experience.
The best part? Less arguing over what to watch!
Because if it’s Ramadan-approved, everyone is on board.
Building Excitement Through the Anticipation of Hari Raya
There’s no denying that kids love presents.
So, rather than simply handing out duit raya on Hari Raya morning, we’re making the experience feel even more rewarding by preparing small gifts in advance.
Instead of focusing on material rewards, these gifts will be linked to their Ramadan journey.
For every fasting goal achieved, whether it’s a half-day fast, a full day, or simply making an effort to try – they’ll have something to look forward to.
There will also be a gift for acts of kindness and patience throughout the month.
This is to reinforce the idea that Ramadan isn’t just about abstaining from food but also about developing good character.
For children old enough to join tarawih prayers, a small reward at the end of the month will be a great way to encourage participation.
By linking excitement to meaningful actions, they will experience the joy of Hari Raya as a culmination of their efforts throughout Ramadan.
Making Iftar Something to Look Forward To
Food is always a central part of Ramadan, and instead of just waiting for iftar to roll around, we’re giving the kids something to be actively excited about.
When I asked my son what he was most excited about this Ramadan, his answer was simple, ‘To eat fruits and drink yummy drinks with Mummy and Papa.’
No elaborate feast, no complicated cravings—just the joy of sharing a meal with us after a long day of waiting.
Kids are beautifully uncomplicated that way.
So, this year, we’re making iftar something they can truly look forward to by involving them in the process.
They’re coming along on our grocery runs, getting to pick out their favourite fruits, dishes, and snacks, knowing that these will be part of our iftar spread.
It’s not just about the food itself, it’s about making them feel included. And about turning this into their Ramadan experience rather than just something they follow along with.
Whether it’s mangoes or their much-loved no-bones-please ayam goreng, knowing that something they personally chose is waiting for them at the table makes the wait feel all the more worthwhile.
And perhaps, in their own little way, it helps them understand that Ramadan is not just about abstaining.
It’s about the anticipation, gratitude, and joy that comes with finally breaking fast together.
Adding a Personal Touch to Their Worship
To make prayers feel more engaging and special, we’re introducing a new Ramadan tradition.
We let the kids pick out their own colourful sejadah (prayer mat) for the month!
There’s something about having a fresh, personally chosen prayer mat that makes the experience more meaningful to them.
It’s a simple way to bring excitement to something that might otherwise feel like just another grown-up responsibility.
This small gesture can turn tarawih at home into an experience they actually look forward to, rather than something they feel like they have to do.
Creating a Ramadan Corner for Reflection and Learning
This year, we’re setting up a dedicated Ramadan reading and activity space where the kids can fully immerse themselves in the spirit of the month.
This space will feature Ramadan-themed books, a countdown calendar to mark the days, and a simple chart to track good deeds and mini fasting goals.
The idea is to give them a space of their own where they can engage with Ramadan in a way that feels fun, interactive, and suited to their age.
By providing engaging reading material and hands-on activities, they’ll begin to see Ramadan not just as a time of restriction.
Instead, they’ll recognise it as a month filled with learning and personal growth.
Making Ramadan Joyful Without Losing Its Essence
At the end of the day, Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement and devotion.
But that doesn’t mean it can’t also be a time of joy and excitement for our little ones.
By introducing small traditions that build anticipation, we’re helping our children develop a love for this holy month.
When we make faith and joy go hand-in-hand, we create traditions that they will carry with them for life.
And that, in itself, is the greatest gift we can give them.
So, parents, if you have unique traditions or ideas that help get your little ones excited for the holy month, share it with us!
The more we create joy and anticipation around Ramadan, the more our children will grow up treasuring its beauty.
Salam Ramadan from us at Motherhood to you and your family.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!