As Hari Raya approaches, many families open their doors to friends and family for open houses, where guests can come and celebrate together.
Attending an open house can be a fun and exciting experience for kids, but it’s important to prepare them for the event beforehand.
If you are not Muslim, and this is your child’s first time attending their Aidilfitri open house, you may need to prep them beforehand.
While many Malays aren’t overly strict about customs, it’s important to make good impressions. Especially if they are close friends.
Here are some crucial things you should tell your kids before attending someone’s open house this Hari Raya.
How to Prep Your Kids for a Hari Raya Open House
Respect Cultural Traditions
It’s important to remind your kids to respect the cultural traditions of the hosts. Discuss with them about the importance. These include removing their shoes before entering the home, and dressing appropriately, especially if it is a traditional event.
Encourage them to learn more about the customs and traditions of Hari Raya and ask questions if they are unsure.
Muslims don’t have a tonne of strict rules, but cleanliness is usually a big thing.
Mind Their Manners
Remind your kids to use their manners and be polite. They should greet the hosts and other guests when they arrive and say thank you before leaving.
Encourage them to engage in conversation, but to be respectful and mindful of other people’s space and personal belongings.
This of course is what we call common courtesy and isn’t only limited to Hari Raya open houses. You should teach your kids to behave at other people’s houses regardless of the time of year or occasion.
And this starts with teaching to have good manners at home.
Bring A Gift
It’s customary to bring a gift when attending an open house, so make sure to remind your kids to bring one. It doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate.
A small gift, such as cookies or a card, is thoughtful and will be appreciated. Malays for instance, love gifts of food. So if you are not Muslim yourself, make sure the food is halal and do not contain any pork or alcohol.
A good way to ensure this is to buy from Malay businesses and caterers. While your kids may not be the one doing the purchase, they can do the physical gift-giving at the door.
Be Mindful Of Food Allergies
This is more for your convenience than the host. Although a child having an allergic reaction can bring down the party mood real quick.
If your child has food allergies, it’s important to let the host know in advance. Encourage your child to ask about the ingredients in the food being served, and to be mindful of their own food allergies.
If necessary, bring your child’s own food to the event.
Be Patient
Attending an open house can be overwhelming for kids, especially if it’s their first time. Encourage them to be patient and not to rush around.
Remind them to wait their turn and be mindful of other guests. Some parents bring along their kids’ favourite toys or an iPad.
If you do this, make sure those toys or children’s programmes are not annoying, or loud.
Follow Safety Rules
It’s important to remind your kids to follow safety rules when attending an open house. For example, they should not run or play in the house or near the food table.
They should also be careful around hot food or drinks and not touch anything that looks dangerous. When playing with other kids it’s important to be mindful and respect boundaries.
You don’t want your kids to hurt the hosts’ children even if on accident.
Have a Fantastic Hari Raya Open House
Attending open houses during Raya is a joyful tradition that many families look forward to.
However, it is important to ensure that your children understand the proper etiquette and behavior when visiting someone’s home.
Teaching your children basic manners and reminding them to respect the host’s property and culture is crucial to avoid any embarrassment or awkward situations.
Additionally, it is essential to educate your children on the significance and meaning behind Raya celebrations, so they understand and appreciate the culture and traditions of their Malay friends and neighbours.
By having these important conversations with your children, you can ensure a pleasant and respectful experience for everyone during the Raya season.
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