Before we delve into the exciting world of Ramadan activities for toddlers, let’s take a moment to appreciate one of the remarkable advantages of growing up in a country like India, that is, the exposure to numerous festivals and cultures right from childhood. It’s a beautiful aspect that allows us to learn about accepting differences and embracing diversity. Moreover, it becomes even more meaningful when we educate our children about the reasons behind the celebration of various holidays, ensuring they don’t view them as mere school holidays.
With the month of Ramadan currently underway and Eid approaching later this week, it’s the perfect time to focus on this festival. Engaging children in the festivities alongside other kids in their neighborhood or apartment building can create a memorable experience. Organizing a small celebration, complete with a feast, not only strengthens bonds within the community but also provides an opportunity for children to immerse themselves in the joyous spirit of Eid.
By involving toddlers in Ramadan activities and celebrations, we can instill in them a sense of cultural appreciation, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the traditions that shape our diverse society.
What is Ramadan?
Muslims across the world follow the lunar calendar for religious purposes, and the ninth month in this calendar is Ramadan or Ramzan. It starts with the sighting of the crescent and ends with the same. Due to this, the month isn’t a fixed 30 days; it can also be 29 days based on the moon sighting.
During this month, people stay away from food and water from sunrise to sunset. The purpose is to feel the pangs of a starving man, which should incite us to help such a person as well as to feel gratitude for our blessings. It also strengthens one’s resolve and develops sacrifice, self control and will power.
The end of the fasting month is celebrated as Eid-ul-Fitr. On this day, all family members wear new clothes, exchange gifts and cards, enjoy a grand feast and visit relatives and friends. Now, even if you can’t do all these, we’ve got a bunch of activities lined up for your toddler to do, so that he can also participate in the spirit of the festival!!
7 Ramadan Activities for Toddlers
The crescent moon holds immense significance in Ramadan, making this Paper Plate Moon Craft from Nurture Store an ideal activity for the season of Ramadan activities for toddlers. It’s a wonderful craft project that even toddlers can participate in, with adult assistance, of course. Together, you can create a beautiful paper plate moon to hang high, allowing your little one to admire their handiwork and feel a sense of pride in their contribution to the Ramadan decorations.
Collages are great first crafts for little kids, and using foam instead of paper makes it easier for tiny fingers to handle. Karimas Crafts offers a fantastic mosque craft with a template for cutting out foam shapes in different colors. With some glue and your guidance, your toddler can stick the foam pieces together to create a masterpiece and have a fun time during these Ramadan activities for toddlers.
For kids who are just learning about Ramadan, this book by Karen Katz is a great pick and it’s especially suitable for toddlers. It explains the basic concepts of the month in very simple language, in typical Katz style!
Besides abstaining from food and drink, Ramadan is also a time to do as many good deeds as possible. Help your toddler create this Good Deeds Calendar from Crayola, and mark a good deed for him to do every day. It could be something very simple, like offering the gardener a drink when he’s working, or helping you to clear the table. Toddlers love to help, so make the most of this behaviour!
This is a really simple card from Artsy Craftsy Mom that even young kids can make for their grandparents, neighbours, teachers or friends. With very basic supplies, all your toddler needs to do is stick on the moon and stars – and your card is ready!
This craft from Nurture Store is perfect if you have a toddler and an older kid. First get your toddler to scribble on paper with crayons to his heart’s content. Then get your older kid to paint over it with watercolours. Now, Mom or Dad can cut out slits and fold it into lantern shape. A complete family activity!
With moon and star-shaped cookie cutters, you and your toddler can have a blast making shapes from all kinds of foods during these Ramadan activities for toddlers! As seen on Karimas Crafts, you can cut crescent and star shapes out of watermelon, bread, cheese, or any other soft food that your little one enjoys. These simple and engaging activities are designed to actively involve toddlers and let them participate in a fun and creative way. So, gather the necessary supplies, pick a few crafts that will appeal to your toddler, and get started! Don’t forget to spread lots of newspaper below to contain the mess. Eid Mubarak!
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