Ramadan has always been regarded as a special time, especially for all the Muslims around the world. During Ramadan, from parents to children, they all fast starting from dawn until dusk. However, introducing children to fasting could be neither easy nor hard. It has various stages from who should fast, what to do during fasting, when the time is, and how to do it. 

No matter how challenging it may be, Ramadan is an opportunity to teach our children the beauty of the holy month. There is no such thing as a perfect way to teach children how to fast, but there is a way to get you started as parents. Here are several tips that might help you through your journey. 

Practice makes perfect

Providing an atmosphere of Ramadan in the house could be one of the easiest ways to get you started with your teaching journey. The popular suggestion is that children imitate their parents, so, giving direct examples will let a child see and give them the opportunity of what needs and is supposed to be done. 

Meanwhile, for younger children aged seven and under, with the period of operational cognitive development, the better way to teach them fasting is to provide rewards and reinforcement if they are able to do one full month of fasting. The rewards can be in a form of gifts or praises. 

Following the previous tips, you can also ensure that during Ramadan, children can get used to the habit such as waking up for suhoor gradually. The feeling of having a routine will decrease the chances of tantrums in the middle of the day and increase the opportunity that the children will have fasting for one full month. 

Make healthy choices

Experts believe that teaching fasting to children as early as possible is important. Apart from teaching them, observing their physical condition is also another essential thing during the holy month. You can enhance this by giving them healthy choices. 

Parents can provide them with nutritious foods. Thinking about meal preparation could be confusing. However, it does not necessarily need you to prepare all of the greens. Red meats are also healthy for children, just ensure that all of the nutrients children will receive is balanced. 

While they are still growing, during Ramadan, try to lessen their salt and sugary food intake. Foods that are high in fiber and protein are best at keeping them in their full energy and stable emotion. Some of the foods include milk, yogurt, rice, potatoes, and vegetables. 

Explain why we fast

Teaching them why we fast and the sunnah, or the good deeds, that can be done is part of introducing fasting to children. It is crucial that children understand the significance of Ramadan. It is recommended to explain to them and answer any questions they have, even when it might sound nonsense. 

Other than getting them involved during suhoor and iftar, encourage them to read the Quran or even just sit along with the adults when reading it. If the children wish, you can start teaching them to memorize the words. 

Good luck on your journey!