Islamic Toys for Kids

Many English-speaking countries have large Pakistani populations.

Islam, among the world's most wide-spread religions, is practiced in many countries, including Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Indonesia. People from those countries typically remain loyal to Islam even when they emigrate to the West. They may face some cultural problems in Western countries, however. For example, finding appropriate toys for their children. Fortunately, there are many toys designed specifically for Muslim children.

Razanne

Barbie Dolls are totally inappropriate toys, according to the teachings of Islam. The miniskirts, bikinis and most of her other clothes are not conservative and modest enough to please many Muslim parents. Razanne, Islam's equivalent of Barbie, is more appropriate. She comes in a variety of skin, eye and hair colors. Her clothes are modest and include Islam-compliant options such as a hijab (headscarf).

Jigsaw Puzzles with Koranic Stories

Children of all ages like jigsaw puzzles. They are enjoyable, helping children learn to think logically, develop spatial abilities and stimulate imagination. Jigsaw puzzles with stories from Koran, the Muslim holy book, add an educational aspect.

Mecca to Medina Game

Mecca to Medina is a board game that allows children to learn strategy. In the game, the participants must travel from Mecca to Medina, two of Islam's holiest cities. Players can also choose alternative routes to or from Baghdad and Cairo. Along the way, players get into different troubles and must manage their resources carefully. The game is designed for Muslim kids ages 8 and up. An average game is played in about 30 minutes and requires two to six players.

Arabic Alphabet Activity Table Mat

Another game, Arabic Alphabet Activity Table Mat, teaches Muslim children Arabic characters. In this game, Arabic characters are shaped in the form of animals. On the back of the mat, your child can read directions in English on how to play with the letters. For example, she may need to fill in the missing letters in the name of an animal or match animals with the letters they represent.

References

• Families: Toys for Muslim Children
• Al-Huda Bookstore: Mecca To Medina Game
• Dar-us-Salam Islamic Bookstore: Arabic Alphabet Activity Table Mat
• BBC: Hijab