How to Rear Children in Islam
Raising children in Islam requires an in-depth knowledge of the religious principles that govern the faith, as well as the ability to function well within the dominant culture. The Prophet Muhammad is considered to be a role model for parents raising children in Islam, and his teachings should be used to impart Muslim principles and ideals to children as they grow.
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Instructions
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Read the Qur'an with your children regularly so they learn the will of Allah and how to obey it. Depending on their age, there may be some principles or lessons they cannot yet understand. However, it is important to base their life from an early age on the teachings of the Islamic holy book.
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Explain the concept of Allah. Islam teaches that Allah is the creator of all things, and there is no other. This is an important concept in Islam.
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Solicit the assistance of your local imam. This spiritual leader and head of the local mosque provides guidance to Muslim families. Work with him on getting your child adjusted to growing up Muslim in a secular society, and ask him to counsel your child -- and your family as a whole -- to reinforce Islamic habits, such as reverent prayer or fasting when necessary, even when the dominant culture does not practice them.
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Send your children to an educational institution that celebrates, understands and/or adheres to the principles of Islam. Many Muslim parents do not believe in school-based sex education, mixed gender physical education or secular teachings in school. If you are unable to find a school that adheres to Muslim principles, reinforce Muslim teachings in the home regularly. Send children to weekend school at your local Islamic center for further religious instruction, a common practice for Muslim families.
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Add various Muslim practices to children's lives as they mature. For example, around the age of seven is when you should formally teach your child to pray. Younger children likely will not understand the concept of praying five times daily, fasting or dressing modestly. Children aged 10 and older are expected to formally participate in religious services. Around puberty is when Muslim children are expected to formally participate in fasting.
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Contact your local Islamic center for further guidance and support. Find one through sites such as Islamicfinder.org or Islamiccenters.com. The Islamic Society of North America also may be able to help you find a nearby mosque. There may be programs for children at your local center to assist you in your parenting endeavors, but you also will fine a community of other parents facing similar child-raising issues.
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