As we begin the holy month of Rajab, it's the perfect time for us to instil a sense of spiritual preparation in our homes, setting the stage for a fulfilling upcoming Ramadhan.
For us to prepare ourselves on a physical, mental and spiritual level, it’s important to begin this journey to Allah (SWT) from now.
Here are eight tips to help you get started on this spiritual journey with your little ones.
1. Talk about Rajab's Significance:
Begin by explaining the importance of the month of Rajab as a precursor to Ramadan. Just like a marathon run requires training and preparation, or an exam requires revision, Allah (SWT) has blessed us with two months prior to the holy month of Ramadan to prepare us to be our best and do our best.
2. Introduce Allah's Names and Attributes:
This month is an opportunity for us to learn more about Allah (SWT). There is no better way than to know Him through His name and attributes. Take time to discuss His mercy, compassion, and wisdom. Share stories and examples that highlight these divine qualities to foster a deep understanding and connection.
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3. Create a Prayer Routine:
There is no better time to begin to establish a consistent prayer routine with your children. Encourage them to perform their daily prayers and help them understand the significance of each prayer in fostering a stronger connection with Allah (SWT). Praying in congregation as a family builds the connection between family members and of course ultimately to Allah (SWT). Let’s not forget the reward is also multiplied!
4. Fasting Practice:
Introduce the concept of fasting gradually. Encourage your children to fast for shorter durations during Rajab to prepare them for the longer fasting days of Ramadan. Emphasize the spiritual benefits of fasting, beyond the physical act.
5. Family Reading Sessions:
One of the best forms of worship, even in the month of Ramadan is seeking knowledge. This is a great opportunity to engage in family reading sessions centered around stories from the Quran, the life of the prophet and general Islamic principles. Choose age-appropriate books or creative tools that highlight the virtues of good character, kindness, and the importance of cultivating a strong relationship with Allah (SWT). You could even encourage them to do the story-telling.
6. Acts of Kindness and Charity:
Allah (SWT) emphasises the importance of feeling a sense of community. Teach your children the importance of giving and generally spreading kindness. Engage in acts of charity together as a family, whether it's donating to a cause or helping those in need. Instilling empathy and generosity helps nurture a compassionate heart. This is essential as Allah (SWT) wants us to return to him with a “pure heart” (Quran, 26:89)
7. Daily Reflections and goals:
Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) always encouraged his people to reflect, saying (حاسبوا انفسكم قبل ان تحاسبوا) - judge yourself (hold yourself accountable) before you are judged (by Allah (SWT) on the day of judgement).
This encourages us reflect daily on where we are and where we want to be and begin the journey of change and growth. Small changes are always easiest and longer lasting.
Start with either daily spiritual goals or character goals. This could be setting intention to recite Quran daily or praying salat on time.
Character goals can be learning 1 attribute of Allah (swt) at a time and trying to nurture that positive character into yourself.
This way, we approach the month of Ramadan in a stronger way and closer to Allah (SWT).
8. Build an attitude of Gratitude:
Teach your children the importance of gratitude. Allah (SWT) tells us in the Quran that gratitude increases our blessings. It’s therefore important to help our children recognize and appreciate the blessings they have, fostering a mindset of thankfulness. Gratitude is a powerful tool for drawing closer to Allah (SWT), remembering to always thank Allah (SWT), as well as people who have helped us everyday.
Activity Idea:
1- Get a decorative twig tree.
2- Cut out star and moon shape cards, hole punch at the top and attach a ribbon to each the cards.
3- Write a name of Allah (SWT) on each of the cards (the stars and moons).
4- Every day pick one card. Discuss the meaning of the name, what we learn about that attribute of Allah (SWT) and how we can incorporate it into our own lives.
5- Once discussed, hang that name on your tree.
(If you don't have a decorative tree, you can hang a rope and attach each name to the rope instead)
How many names can you learn by the end of the month of Ramadan?
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