How to Teach Muslim Kids to Pray and Fast

Educating Muslim children to pray and fast is a vital aspect of raising them to be good Muslims. Nonetheless, many of us as Muslim parents are frequently confounded by the question of when and how to begin. Of course, we don't want our kids to simply fast and pray without understanding why and what they signify. Or worse, because they’re afraid of being scolded. According to Fiqh Islam Online, parents should strive to teach their children how to pray and fast from a young age for them to become accustomed to such acts of worship as they grow older. This is consistent with the narration below: Abdullah ibn `Amr ibn al-`Aas, narrated that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) is reported to have said, “Instruct your children to pray when they are seven years old and discipline them if they don’t when they are ten years old.” (Reported by Abu Dawud). In terms of fasting, it becomes compulsory when a person reaches puberty, just like other obligatory acts of worship. Nonetheless, if the kids are physically capable, it is highly desired to encourage them to fast from a young age, when they turn seven. Thus, we as parents have a responsibility to educate our children and show the importance of prayer and fasting in the Muslim's religious life. There are a variety of inventive ways to accomplish this, and here are five great strategies for teaching Muslim youngsters to fast and pray. Educate Both Yourself and Your Children Image credit: Canva Firstly, you must understand what prayer and fasting are all about before teaching them to your children. Find out about the five daily prayers and the different types of fasting, such as fasting during Ramadan. Spend some time researching the significance of prayer and fasting in the Islamic religion, and familiarise yourself with the various duas (supplications) and supplications related to fasting and praying. You should also introduce your children to Islamic literature. Read them stories from the Qur’an and Hadith, which contain references to fasting and prayer. This will help them to become familiar with what is required of them as Muslims and understand why they should pray and fast. Explain in Simple Terms Why We Pray & Fast Image credit: Canva When teaching children about prayer and fasting, it is important to explain the basics in an age-appropriate manner. Discuss why prayer and fasting, two of Islam's five pillars, are vital and how they can help children become better Muslims. Make sure to emphasise the spiritual aspects of prayer and fasting rather than the physical ones. You can also make it enjoyable for the kids. Fasting and praying should be viewed as a means of spiritual progress rather than a burden. Make it more enjoyable by including activities like singing, painting, and storytelling in your teaching. Involve Kids in Prayers and Fasting Image credit: Canva It is essential for children to actively participate in prayer and fasting rather than just being told to do so. Invite children to join you in prayer, and ask them to help you prepare for Ramadan fasting. If possible, take them to the mosque for prayers, or have them participate in special fasting activities. Make this a family activity and ensure that your entire family participates. At home, make it a routine to pray and fast together, and share the experience with your children. When you show your kids that prayer and fasting are important parts of our life, it will help them understand the importance of the practice. This way, they won't feel compelled to pray or fast. On the contrary, they will only feel it is natural to do so and thus, more willing. Teach Proper Etiquette and Create a Positive Environment Image credit: Canva Children should be taught proper prayer and fasting etiquette. Teach them how to perform wudu (ablution) before prayers, how to dress properly for prayers, and how to behave during prayers. Explain to them why it is important to respect the sanctity of prayer and fasting. Also, why it is important to adhere to the rules of etiquette. At the same time, create a safe and friendly learning atmosphere for your children. Ascertain that the environment is comfortable, distraction-free, and favourable to learning. And remember, you have the responsibility to set a good example for your children. So, let them see you in action as you fast and pray; they will soon follow in your footsteps. Use Visual Aids Image credit: Canva To make learning about prayer and fasting more interesting, use visual aids such as books, videos, and diagrams. This can help them to understand the process better, making it easier to follow. Show children the different positions of prayer, and the steps involved in fasting. Use pictures and diagrams to explain the concepts of fasting and praying, and show them how each part of the process works. You can also use stories from the Quran and Islamic books to demonstrate the significance of prayer and fasting. To take it a step further, make a prayer or fasting booklet with images and inspirational quotes to keep kids engaged and inspired. This booklet can also be used as a reference when remembering specific prayers or practises. Teach Kids by Encouragement, Not Force Image credit: Canva Whichever method you use to educate your children to fast and pray, keep in mind that you should do so with encouragement rather than force. Praise them for their eagerness to learn and their efforts to fast and pray. If you push your children to learn to pray and fast, it could create a sense of resentment and lead to a feeling of being controlled. That's not something you want to do. Simultaneously, you want your children to understand that praying and fasting are personal and private matters that should be treated with respect and understanding. With proper guidance, children can develop a strong sense of faith, as well as comprehend and appreciate the necessity of fasting and praying. So, parents, if possible, teach your children to fast and pray from an early age. ;) For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

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