What is Ramadan for Kids?
Ramadan is a special time for Muslims, just like Christmas is for Santa believers (but with way less milk and cookies involved). It lasts for a whole month, and it’s a time to focus on being kind, helpful, and extra thankful for all the good stuff in life.
One big part of Ramadan is fasting. That means grown-ups (and older kids when they’re ready) don’t eat or drink anything during the day. It’s like a super cool challenge to help them understand what it’s like for people who don’t always have enough food.
But Ramadan isn’t all about holding in your tummy grumbles! It’s also a time for awesome celebrations, yummy nighttime feasts (called Iftar – think giant family dinner party!), and learning more about Islam. So buckle up, because Ramadan is about to get fun! ☪️
How Do Children Celebrate Ramadan in Sunnah?
There actually might be a bit of confusion here! Sunnah isn’t a specific place where Ramadan is celebrated differently. It’s more likely the question refers to how children celebrate in general, or perhaps a specific tradition within a Sunni branch of Islam.
Here are two ways to approach this depending on what you want for your article:
1. Explain how children celebrate Ramadan in general: This would be the broader approach, explaining that young children typically don’t fast but participate in other ways. You could mention:
- Helping prepare Suhoor and Iftar meals: This gets them involved in the excitement and teaches them about sharing.
- Going to Taraweeh prayers with their parents: Even if they don’t participate fully, they can experience the special Ramadan atmosphere.
- Learning short prayers and stories about Ramadan: This helps them understand the meaning of the holiday.
- Doing good deeds and helping others: Charity is a big part of Ramadan, and kids can participate by donating toys or helping out at homeless shelters (with adult supervision, of course).
2. Focus on a specific Sunni tradition: If you have a particular tradition in mind, you can research it and explain how children participate. Be sure to mention the specific branch of Sunni Islam the tradition comes from (e.g., Hanafi, Maliki, etc.)
10 Great Ramadan Activities for Kids
The hustle and bustle of Ramadan is upon you! Mosques are twinkling with extra lights, the scent of delicious foods fills the air, and your little ones are bouncing off the walls with excitement (and maybe a rumble in their tummies!). But between Suhoor and Iftar, keeping those tiny humans entertained can feel like a challenge worthy of a superhero. Fear not, fellow parents! We’ve got a treasure trove of Ramadan Activities for Kids that will keep them engaged, learning, and spreading Ramadan cheer the whole month long. From crafting their own prayer mats to whipping up yummy treats, get ready for some serious fun (and maybe a few giggles) with our top 10 picks!
DIY Prayer Mat: Craft a Cozy Corner for Connection
Every superhero needs a headquarters, and during Ramadan, your little one’s prayer mat becomes their special spot to connect with Allah. But who says a prayer mat can’t be bursting with personality? Here’s how to create a one-of-a-kind DIY prayer mat that’s both comfy and cool:
What you’ll need:
Fabric (cotton or felt work well) – large enough for your child to kneel on comfortably (think yoga mat size)
Fabric scissors (adult supervision recommended!)
Fabric markers or paints (washable if using fabric)
Optional: Decorations like pom-poms, glitter glue, or fabric scraps
Let’s get crafting!
- Pick a Perfect Piece: Choose a fabric that’s soft and comfortable for your child to kneel on. Opt for something colorful or with a pre-printed design that reflects their personality.
- Cut it Out: With adult help, cut the fabric to the desired size. A standard prayer mat is around 2.5 ft x 4 ft (think bath towel size), but adjust it based on your child’s needs.
- Time to Decorate! Unleash your child’s inner artist! Let them personalize their prayer mat with fabric markers, paints, or even stencils. Encourage them to draw mosques, crescents, or write inspirational messages in Arabic (if they know some).
- Accessorize Away (Optional): Feeling fancy? Add some fun embellishments like pom-poms around the edges, sparkly accents with glitter glue, or even sew on fabric scraps to create a unique design.
The Grand Unveiling!
Once your masterpiece is complete, present it to your child with a big “Mashallah!” (meaning “God has willed it” – a way to express appreciation). Now they have a one-of-a-kind prayer mat that makes their Ramadan experience even more special.
Edible Crescent Fun: Moon Munchies for Little Muslims!
Ramadan nights are magical – twinkling lights, family gatherings, and the promise of a delicious Iftar feast. But keeping tiny hands busy while waiting for the first bite can be a challenge. Worry not, parents! This Edible Crescent Activity is here to turn those pre-Iftar rumbles into creative crescents and happy tummies.
What you’ll need:
- Cookie cutters (crescent moon shape is ideal, but any fun shape will work!)
- Delicious, kid-friendly foods that are easy to cut (think):
- Fruits like apples, bananas, melons, or kiwi
- Vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots (cheese slices for dipping are a bonus!)
- Soft cheese, deli meat, or cooked pancakes (crescent-shaped sandwiches, anyone?)
- A plate (or a fun serving platter for extra pizzazz!)
Let the Moon Munching Begin!
- Food Fiesta Prep: Wash and prepare your chosen foods. If using fruits or vegetables, slice them thinly for easy cutting. Adults can handle the cookie cutters for safety, but feel free to let your child help (supervised) with softer options like cheese or pancakes.
- Crescent Cutting Extravaganza! This is where the fun begins! Let your child use the cookie cutters to create a sky full of crescent moons (or fun shapes!) out of their chosen food. Encourage them to get creative – can they make a crescent moon sandwich or a fruit salad moon with a sprinkle of blueberries as stars?
- Plate Perfection: Arrange their edible creations on a plate. Add some artistic flair with leaves of mint or edible flowers (always check for safety before using flowers).
Bonus Tip: Turn it into a competition! Challenge your child to see who can make the most crescent moons, or the most creative constellation on their plate. Just remember, the real winner is a happy (and full) tummy!
Paper Plate Moon and Stars
Looking for a quick and easy craft that’s perfect for Ramadan nights? Look no further than the humble paper plate! This Paper Plate Moon and Stars activity is a budget-friendly, mess-free way for your little ones to create their own celestial masterpiece.
What you’ll need:
- Paper plates (one for the moon and extras for stars!)
- Paint (yellow and white work great, but any colors are welcome!)
- Paintbrushes
- Scissors (adult supervision recommended!)
- Markers or crayons (optional)
- Glitter glue or sequins (optional, for extra sparkle!)
Let’s Craft Our Cosmic Canvas!
- Moon Magic: We’re starting with the star of the show (pun intended!). Fold a paper plate in half and carefully cut out a crescent moon shape with adult help. Unfold your paper plate to reveal a beautiful crescent moon!
- Painting the Night Sky: Time to unleash your child’s inner artist! Let them paint their moon with bright yellow paint for a classic Ramadan vibe. You can even add some white speckles with the tip of their brush to create a starry effect.
- Starry, Starry Night: Now for the fun part – the stars! Grab additional paper plates and cut out different star shapes (think big, small, and everything in between!). Encourage your child to paint them all sorts of colors.
- Dazzling Details (Optional): Feeling fancy? Let your child add some sparkle with glitter glue or sequins. They can create constellations, write messages on their stars, or even draw little faces on them.
- Hang it High! Once the paint and glue are dry, poke a small hole at the top of the moon with a safety pin (adult does this!) and thread some string through it. Find a special spot to hang your child’s creation – a window, a wall, or even the ceiling for a truly celestial display!
This Paper Plate Moon and Stars craft is a great way to keep your little ones entertained while learning about the crescent moon, a symbol of Ramadan. Plus, it creates a beautiful and personalized Ramadan decoration for your home!
Ramadan And Eid Throw Pillows
While Ramadan and Eid throw pillows are a great decorative idea, they might not be the most engaging activity for kids, especially compared to the creative and edible crafts we’ve covered already. Here are a couple of options to consider for your “10 Great Ramadan Activities for Kids” list:
Move this activity to a later spot on the list: Since throw pillows require some adult assistance with sewing or using a pillowcase, it might be better suited for slightly older kids or a collaborative parent-child activity. You could position it after the other crafts as a way to wind down and create something decorative for the home together.
- Replace it with a more engaging activity: Here are a couple of ideas that might be more engaging for a wider range of ages:
- Story Time with a Twist: Dedicate some time each day or night to reading fun and educational stories about Ramadan and Eid. You can find children’s books specifically focused on these holidays, or even create your own stories together!
- Ramadan Scavenger Hunt: Hide small Ramadan-themed toys or treats around the house and create a scavenger hunt for your kids. Clues can be riddles related to Ramadan traditions or descriptions of the hidden items.
Ultimately, the choice is yours! If you know your target audience includes crafty parents who might enjoy this activity with their kids, you can keep it on the list. Just be sure to consider the age range and overall flow of activities when making your decision.
Ramadan Rice Crispes Treats: A Sweet Way to Celebrate!
Ramadan nights are all about togetherness and sharing, and what better way to celebrate than with a fun and delicious treat? These Ramadan Rice Krispie Treats are a twist on a classic, perfect for creating memories and satisfying sweet tooths.
What you’ll need:
- 3 cups (75g) Rice Krispies cereal
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 10 oz (283g) bag of mini marshmallows (or swap in half white and half colored marshmallows for a festive touch!)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- Sprinkles or edible glitter (optional)
- Cookie cutters (crescent moon shape is ideal, but any fun shape works!)
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
Let’s Cook Up Some Fun!
- Melt the Butter: In a large saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Be patient and keep stirring to avoid burning.
- Marshmallow Magic: Once the butter is melted, add the marshmallows and stir constantly until they’re completely melted and smooth.
- Vanilla Vibes (Optional): If using vanilla extract, stir it in now and give it a good mix.
- Cereal Celebration! Remove the pan from the heat and carefully pour in the Rice Krispies cereal. Use a gentle mixing spoon to coat all the cereal pieces with the marshmallow mixture.
- Shaping Up for Fun: Here comes the creative part! Pour the mixture onto your prepared baking sheet. Use a buttered spatula or wax paper to gently press the mixture into an even layer.
Let’s Get Fancy (Optional): Before pressing the mixture down, you can add a fun twist!
- Sprinkle Celebration: Rain down some colorful sprinkles or edible glitter over the top of the warm mixture before pressing it down.
- Crescent Moon Cutouts: If you have crescent moon cookie cutters, use them to cut out shapes from the warm mixture before pressing it down.
- Cool Down Time: Let the Rice Krispie Treats cool completely at room temperature for at least an hour.
Time to Cut and Enjoy! Once cool, use a knife (dipped in hot water for clean cuts) to cut the treats into squares or your desired shapes.
Bonus Tip: Wrap up individual treats in cellophane bags and tie them with ribbon for a delightful Ramadan gift or party favor!
These Ramadan Rice Krispie Treats are a fun and easy way to get kids involved in the kitchen during Ramadan. Plus, they’re a delicious way to celebrate and share the spirit of the holiday!
Colouring & Drawing
The beauty of Ramadan lies not just in traditions, but also in fostering creativity and self-expression. That’s where colouring and drawing come in – a delightful activity that keeps kids entertained while deepening their connection to Ramadan. Here are some ways to make colouring and drawing a Ramadan blast:
- Ramadan-Themed Colouring Pages: The internet is a treasure trove of free, printable colouring pages featuring mosques, crescents, lanterns, and scenes of families celebrating Iftar. Let your child pick their favorites and unleash their inner artist!
- Design Your Own Prayer Rug: Take colouring a step further by providing plain white paper or fabric cutouts (think mini prayer mats!). Kids can decorate them with colourful markers, crayons, or even glitter glue, creating a personalized prayer space they’ll love using.
- Ramadan Story Time with Illustrations: Turn story time into an interactive experience! Read a children’s book about Ramadan and have your child draw pictures along the way. They can illustrate their favourite characters, moments, or even create their own ending to the story.
- Decorate Dates (with Adult Supervision): Dates are a staple during Ramadan. Take a break from the usual and get creative! Using food-safe markers, let your child decorate the pits of pitted dates with fun designs or Ramadan messages. (Remember, adult supervision is key for this activity!)
- Ramadan Banner Bonanza: Get ready for Eid with a homemade banner! String some twine or ribbon across a wall and provide your child with large sheets of paper. They can draw festive scenes, write Ramadan greetings, or even create their own calligraphy art (with a little guidance!). Hang the finished banner proudly for a touch of Ramadan cheer.
Colouring and drawing are more than just activities – they’re a gateway to imagination and learning. Use these ideas to spark your child’s creativity and make Ramadan a truly colourful and memorable experience!
Stuffed Medjool Dates
Ramadan is a time for family, reflection, and of course, delicious food! Stuffed Medjool dates are a fun and healthy snack that kids can help prepare, making them a perfect addition to your “10 Great Ramadan Activities for Kids” list.
What you’ll need:
Medjool dates (pitted if not already)
Nut butter (almond butter, peanut butter, or cashew butter work well)
Chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, or walnuts add a nice crunch)
Dried fruits (chopped dried apricots, raisins, or cranberries for a burst of sweetness)
Shredded coconut (optional, for an extra tropical touch)
Mini chocolate chips (optional, for a decadent treat)
Let’s Get Stuffing!
- Date Debrief: Explain to your child that Medjool dates are a special fruit enjoyed during Ramadan. Let them feel the soft texture and discuss the sweet flavour.
- Pit Stop! (Adult handles this step) If your dates aren’t already pitted, carefully cut them open along the side and remove the pit with a small knife.
- The Great Stuffing: Here comes the fun part! Let your child use a small spoon to scoop some nut butter into the cavity of each date. Encourage them to experiment with different types of nut butters to find their favourite flavour combination.
- Top it Off! Now comes the creativity! Provide a variety of chopped nuts, dried fruits, and other toppings in separate bowls. Let your child use their imagination to decorate each date with their favourite combinations. Think of it as tiny edible masterpieces!
Bonus Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, melt some dark chocolate chips (adult does this part) and drizzle it over the stuffed dates for an extra decadent treat. Just be sure the dates are cool before adding chocolate.
Suhoor and Iftar in Ramadan
Ramadan is a whirlwind of delicious traditions, and what better way to engage your kids than by exploring the special meals of Suhoor and Iftar? Here’s how to turn mealtimes into mini-learning experiences:
Related: Fasting During Ramadan
Suhoor Sneak Peek:
- Pre-Dawn Power Up: Explain to your child that Suhoor is the pre-dawn meal Muslims eat before the fast begins. It’s like a superhero’s fuel for the day ahead!
- Healthy Choices Matter: Discuss the importance of healthy foods at Suhoor to keep them energized throughout the day. Encourage them to choose complex carbohydrates like whole-wheat toast or oatmeal for long-lasting energy, and protein-rich foods like eggs or yogurt to keep them feeling full.
- Get them Involved (Age-Appropriate): Depending on their age, let your kids help prepare Suhoor. They can wash fruits, set the table, or even help assemble simple dishes.
Iftar Fun:
- The Big Family Feast: Iftar is the magical meal that breaks the fast after sunset. Explain to your child that it’s a time for families and communities to come together and celebrate.
- Gratitude is the Spice of Life: Before digging in, take a moment to express gratitude for the food and the blessings of Ramadan. This simple act teaches kids the importance of appreciating what they have.
- Iftar Around the World: The world is a big place! Explore different Iftar traditions online or in books. Look at pictures of Iftar meals from various countries and discuss the unique dishes enjoyed around the globe.
- Let’s Get Crafty!: Turn leftover dates or nuts from Iftar into a fun craft activity (see Stuffed Medjool Dates activity above!).
Bonus Tip: Involve your kids in meal planning for Suhoor and Iftar. Let them choose healthy options from a pre-approved list and get excited about the delicious foods that fuel their Ramadan journey.
By making Suhoor and Iftar interactive experiences, you’re not just feeding your child’s tummy – you’re also helping them understand the traditions and spirit of Ramadan.
Make a Ramadan Calendar
Ramadan is a month filled with excitement and anticipation, especially for little ones! A DIY Ramadan calendar is a fantastic way to keep them engaged and counting down the days to Eid al-Fitr. Here’s how to create a one-of-a-kind calendar that’s both fun and educational:
What you’ll need:
- Cardboard (a sturdy cereal box or poster board works well)
- Construction paper (various colours)
- Scissors
- Glue stick
- Markers, crayons, or paint
- Stickers, glitter, or other decorations (optional)
- Numbers 1-30 (cut from construction paper or foam)
- Small envelopes, bags, or boxes (optional, for hiding treats or activities)
Let’s Create Our Countdown Calendar!
- The Foundation: Cut the cardboard into a desired shape. You can go for a classic rectangle, a crescent moon, a mosque silhouette, or even a fun star shape!
- Decorate It Up! This is where your child’s creativity shines! Let them decorate the cardboard base with paint, markers, or construction paper cutouts. They can draw mosques, crescents, stars, or write a festive Ramadan greeting.
- Number Time: Using construction paper or foam, cut out numbers 1-30. Decorate them with different colours, glitter glue, or stickers. Attach the numbers to the calendar base in order, using a glue stick.
- Pocket Power (Optional): For an added element of surprise, glue small envelopes, bags, or boxes onto the calendar base behind each number. You can hide small treats, Ramadan-themed activities (like colouring pages or short stories), or inspirational messages inside.
Countdown Fun!
Each day throughout Ramadan, have your child mark off the day or open the corresponding pocket to reveal the treat or activity inside. This visual countdown helps them understand the passage of time and builds excitement for Eid al-Fitr!
Bonus Tip: Get the whole family involved! Take turns decorating the calendar, writing inspirational messages for the pockets, or planning fun activities for each day of Ramadan.
A DIY Ramadan calendar is a creative and engaging way for kids to participate in the holiday. It’s not just a countdown – it’s a journey of learning, fun, and building anticipation for the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr!
Prepare Food Together
Ramadan is a time for family, togetherness, and of course, delicious food! What better way to create lasting memories than by preparing meals together in the kitchen? Here are some ideas to get your little sous chefs involved in the Ramadan culinary magic:
Age-Appropriate Tasks:
Little Helpers (2-4 years old): Even the youngest family members can participate! Let them help wash vegetables (supervised!), stir ingredients in a bowl, or tear lettuce leaves for salads.
Junior Chefs (5-8 years old): As your child’s skills and coordination develop, they can take on more responsibility. Tasks like measuring ingredients (with your guidance), pouring liquids, or decorating desserts are perfect for this age group.
Almost-Adults (9+ years old): Older kids can become valuable kitchen companions. They can help chop softer vegetables with a plastic knife (adult supervision!), assemble simple dishes, or even learn to prepare a family recipe under your watchful eye.
Making it Fun and Educational:
- Explore the World Through Food: Turn meal prep into a geography lesson! Choose a recipe from a different country each week and discuss the cultural significance of the dish during Ramadan.
- Let’s Get Scientific! Cooking is a great way to introduce basic science concepts. Explain how heat transforms ingredients, how mixing creates new textures, or how spices add flavour.
- Math in the Kitchen: Recipes are full of math opportunities! Let your child help you measure ingredients, double a recipe, or halve it for a smaller portion.
- Story Time While You Simmer: Bond over Ramadan stories while your dish simmers on the stove. Read children’s books about the traditions of Ramadan or stories that highlight the importance of family and sharing.
Bonus Tip: Get creative with food presentation! Let your child help arrange food on platters for Suhoor or Iftar. Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes from fruits or vegetables, or let them drizzle yogurt with colourful sprinkles.
Preparing food together is more than just a chore during Ramadan – it’s a chance to create lasting memories, teach valuable life skills, and bond as a family. So put on some music, grab your aprons, and get ready for some kitchen fun!
Conclusion
Phew! What a whirlwind of Ramadan activities for kids! We’ve explored crafts, cooking, learning, and so much more. By incorporating these ideas into your Ramadan routine, you’re not just keeping your kids entertained – you’re helping them connect with the spirit of the holiday, understand its traditions, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Remember, Ramadan is a time for family, reflection, and celebrating faith. These activities are just a springboard to help you and your little ones experience the joy and wonder of this special month. So embrace the creativity, share the laughter, and most importantly, cherish the precious moments spent together as a family during this blessed Ramadan.
