47 woman this month | August 2012 | Prophet Mohammed, peace be upon him, once stated, “No father has given a greater gift to his children than that of good moral training”. Although they are not commanded to fast at a young age, parents can still instil in them the value of the three pillars of fasting, giving and praying. This is an ideal time to teach kids the ways of Islam, and with it, the principles of patience, selflessness and gratitude. The wonders of prayer As the philosopher Herbert Spencer said, the great aim of education is not knowledge, but action. Young minds are easily influenced; read the Holy Book in front of them and use stories so they can grasp the moral value. Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was revealed. One of his most knowledgeable companions, Ibn Abbas, narrated that the angel Gabriel used to meet the Prophet every night of the month to study the Holy Book. Prayer creates a religious atmosphere, giving parents the perfect opportunity to teach children the need to pray — to worship and give thanks. Children are known to ape your actions. Allowing them to imitate you during prayer or taking the boys with you to the mosque helps lead them towards the path of faith. Encourage them by rewarding them from time to time after a prayer. An easier method to infuse in them an interest in the Quran is by organising contests for memorising verses. Fasting for forgiveness The word Ramadan translates to “one that burns”, a term rightfully given to the month where sins are burnt away. The Prophet once said that whoever fasted and prayed out of sincere faith in this month will be pardoned of his wrongdoings. Fasting is a great responsibility that requires a lot of effort, a great deal of endurance and a strong will. Kids will be excited to know that the Almighty has made a commitment to reward all those who keep their fast. Learning to love Without doubt, family takes centre stage during the Holy Month. Breaking your fast with your near and dear strengthens the bond between you. Accepting invitations of friends and family for Iftar and welcoming them to your home helps children understand the importance of kinship. It gives them a chance to be nice and kind towards others as they learn the power of togetherness. It is also important for them to respect others and their feelings. For instance, if your child is too young to fast, you could begin by encouraging him to avoid eating or drinking in front of those who do. Ramadan, the season of giving, is the perfect time for little ones to practise selflessness and generosity. Teach them to do good deeds and to help those in need by involving them while you contribute your gifts and donations to various charities. This is a way of introducing them to the principles of humility and sharing. Make this Ramadan the beginning of a memorable and long-lasting experience of growth and guidance for your children. It is also an opportunity to explain the value of prayer. For feedback, comments or questions contact Dr Jinan Darwish via email at: [email protected] A Life Experience • Organise a special Quran-a-thon; make it a yearly practice so it becomes something they look forward to every Ramadan. • Start a charity drive. Encourage them to donate clothes, linens, toys and books to charitable organisations or a masjid. • Keep a Sadaqah bank. Promote the idea of giving during the last 10 days of Ramadan for extra rewards, instead of on Eid. • Offer to organise a fundraiser. Motivate them to share their ideas and try to incorporate them. • Read stories about the prophets. Create posters, cards, journals, etc of the tales you learn together. • Try to recite the Quran as many times as possible, as a family. Tips for Ramadan
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