How To Introduce Islam To Children?

Tips to Teach Islam To Children

Here are some practical tips for effectively introducing Islamic teachings to children.

1. Start with the Basics: Allah and Love

The foremost tip to begin with is to introduce Tawheed (Oneness of God) through the lens of love and gratitude.

• Allah is the Creator: Explain that Allah made everything—the stars, the trees, the animals, and them! Point to the beauty around them. “Look at the bright colors of this flower! Allah made it just for us.”
• Allah Loves Us: Emphasize Allah’s Mercy and Compassion (Ar−Rahman and Ar−Raheem). Reassure them that Allah loves them more than anyone, and that Islam is a way to show our love back.
• A Fun Analogy: Compare Allah to a Best Friend or a Kind Shepherd who watches over them, provides for them, and is always there to listen.

2. Make the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) a Role Model

Children learn best from stories and examples. The life (Seerah) of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) offers the perfect role model of kindness, honesty, and empathy.

• Focus on Character: Share simple stories that highlight his good character, such as his honesty as a young shepherd, his compassion for animals, or his kindness to neighbors.
• Practical Sunnah: Turn the Sunnah into easy, daily habits:
  • Saying Bismillah before eating.
  • Smiling (a form of charity).
  • Sharing toys and food.
  • Sleeping on the right side.
• Make it Real: Ask them, “What would the Prophet Muhammad do?” when they face a small challenge, such as sharing a toy or being patient.

3. The Pillars: Introducing Worship with Joy

Introduce the Five Pillars of Islam gradually, integrating them into daily life without pressure. Try to include activities to engage kids.

1. Shahada (Declaration of Faith): Begin by explaining the significance of the Shahada, which states, “LailahaillAllah, Muhammadur−Rasulullah” (There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah). To make this teaching engaging, consider using a simple song or chant that reinforces its meaning.

2. Salat (Prayer): Introduce the concept of Salat as a special time designated for communication with Allah. This can be illustrated through the ‘My Time with Allah’ approach. Provide a small, colorful prayer rug for children to use, allowing them to stand beside you during prayer and imitate the movements, fostering a sense of participation and understanding.

3. Zakat (Charity): Teach about the importance of charity through a ‘Sharing is Caring’ jar. Create a small, decorated box or jar specifically for Sadaqah (voluntary charity). Encourage children to contribute coins to the jar, and periodically use the collected funds to help someone in need, emphasizing the value of generosity and compassion.

4. Sawm (Fasting): Introduce fasting with a ‘Training Fast’ approach suitable for younger children. Encourage them to attempt a short fast, whether for a half-day or just a few hours during Ramadan. Focus on the joy associated with Iftar (the meal that breaks the fast) and the sense of community that comes with it.

5. Hajj (Pilgrimage): Use arts and crafts to create a model of the Ka’bah, helping to visualize the pilgrimage. Discuss the significance of Hajj and show videos that capture the immense gathering of millions of people visiting Mecca, highlighting the themes of unity and devotion. 

This comprehensive approach helps instill an understanding of the pillars of Islam in an engaging and age-appropriate manner.

4. Environment and Routine: Making Islam Natural 

The most effective teaching happens through the environment and parental example.

• Visual Reminders: Decorate their space with gentle reminders, such as an Ayatal−Kursi print, a colorful Bismillah banner, or books about Islamic heroes.
• The Power of Dua (Supplication): Make supplication a natural part of the day. Teach them simple Dua before eating, before sleeping, and when leaving the house. Encourage them to ask Allah for anything they need, big or small. “Did you lose a toy? Let’s ask Allah to help you find it!”
• Islamic Stories & Songs: Replace some secular screen time with engaging Islamic cartoons, songs (Nashid), and interactive storybooks. Make storytime a cherished event.

5. Community and manners: The Muslim Identity

Islam is a community-oriented faith. Help kids see themselves as part of a loving, global family.

• Visit the Masjid: Even if they can’t sit through a whole sermon, visiting the mosque and experiencing the atmosphere, the sound of the Adhan (call to prayer), and the sight of people praying together is invaluable.
• The Concept of Good Manners: Emphasize that being a Muslim means having the best manners. Teach them practical Adab like:
  • Respecting elders.
  • Speaking softly.
  • Not interrupting others.
  • Saying AssalamuAlaikum (Peace be upon you).
• Celebrate Islamic Events: Make Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha huge, joyous celebrations! New clothes, special foods, family gatherings, and gifts solidify these days as the highlights of the year.

A Bonus Tip: Patience and Consistency 

Be patient and consistent when you are inculcating the basic Islamic values in kids, and above all, be the loving example of the faith you wish them to follow. When they see joy, peace, and kindness radiating from your practice of Islam, they will naturally be drawn to it.

Conclusion 

Islam is a religion based on nature, so motivate kids to learn about it and introduce the basic concepts with lots of activities, animations, stories, and fun ways. If you want to enrol your toddlers in an online Islamic course, the best option is to join a free trial class at Quran Spirit. The dedicated teachers will help your kids learn Islam conveniently at home.