Ramadan 2016, the holiest month of the Muslim calendar, has officially started on Sunday night and will be ending at sundown on July 5. Ramadan 2016 will be observed by 1.6 billion Muslims across the world with prayers, Quran recitations and fasting.
In the United States, an estimated 3.3 million Muslims from small and big cities are expected to take part of Ramadan 2016. If you are a non-Muslim parent whose kids have Muslim friends, it is very important that you teach them to be sensitive to their Muslim friends all throughout Ramadan 2016. Here's how parents can help their kids to be caring and considerate with their Muslim friends during Ramadan 2016.
Initiate A Conversation About Ramadan 2016
Don't leave your kids trying to figure out what really Ramadan 2016 is. Start a conversation and know their thoughts about the holy festival and their Muslim friends. By initiating a conversation about Ramadan 2016, you can correct their wrong perceptions and educate them about why it is being observed by Muslims. This will help them to be sensitive and considerate when dealing with their Muslim friends during Ramadan 2016.
Refrain From Comparing Ramadan 2016 To Your Religious Traditions
Avoid telling your kids that "Our way is right and their way is wrong," it will give them a wrong impression about their Muslim friends' beliefs. Let them understand that each family has its own religious background with traditions that have to be observed. As much as possible, be respectful when discussing Ramadan 2016 so that you can show to your kids that you are practicing what you are trying to teach them.
Tell Your Kids That There Is No Need To Be Aloof With Their Muslim Friends During Ramadan 2016
According to Saeed Ahmed of CNN, the Muslim community will be praying, fasting and abstaining drinking during daylight hours of Ramadan 2016, but it will be business as usual. He added that they can't eat and drink during the entire day, but that does not mean that they can't have friendly walks and conversations. Most Muslim kids are also exempted from fasting. With these, inform your kids that there is no need to stay away from their Muslim friends during Ramadan 2016.
Do you agree with these tips on how parents can help their kids to be sensitive with their Muslim friends during Ramadan 2016? Leave some comments below.
