Ramadan is such a special time for the Muslim community; a month of fasting, reflection, gratitude and celebration. Ramadan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar and lasts 29-30 days. The sighting of the new moon (Hilal) signalled the start of this wonderful and holy month. 

At Redwood Center of Excellence, we welcome this important opportunity to promote cultural diversity and for everyone to express gratitude while extending compassion to those less fortunate than ourselves. 

As we strive to create inclusive and culturally rich learning environments, teaching our children about Ramadan, is a wonderful occasion to celebrate our diversity and promote empathy. Young children will enjoy celebrating Ramadan with friends and loved ones whilst being introduced to family and community traditions that they can look forward to year after year.  

Celebrating Ramadan

Decorations    

One activity you can enjoy with your young child is to help them create their own Ramadan decorations for the home e.g. paper lanterns and moon sighting binoculars.  Children also enjoy counting the days until Eid.  A Ramadan calendar is great for this as children become excited to open the calendar each day! It helps children understand that this is a special time and different to other times of the year.

Bake Ramadan Treats 

Whilst children are too young to fast between dawn and dusk, they can certainly enjoy preparing some treats for their family to enjoy during their evening Iftar meal after sunset.  This is an excellent opportunity to spend quality time with everyone and to show love and appreciation – through food! 

Good Deeds

Ramadan is an important time for self-reflection during which Muslims are encouraged to help family, friends or members of their local community who may be in need. Young children are never too young to learn about the significance of a good deed and how the simplest of kind acts can make a big difference to someone.

May this month bring you peace, blessings, and spiritual growth. Ramadan Mubarak!