Preparing for Ramadan as Parents

As Ramadan nears, we are swarmed with what we should be doing to prepare—cleaning the house, de-cluttering, meal prepping, gift buying, Ramadan planners, kid’s activity baskets, spiritual goals, and the list goes on. It’s overwhelming to say the least.

So, this is your reminder that preparing for Ramadan is different for every person and you don’t need to do any of the above. The only thing we all need to prepare is our heart, mind, body, and soul. What does that entail? Depends on you. How much you need to prepare those things depends on what the rest of your year has looked like. Maybe you need to forgive someone, maybe you need to give up a sin, maybe you need to detox from caffeine—only you know what you need to do to prepare.

As for meal planning? If you have the time and it makes for a less stressful Ramadan for you, do it! If that isn’t the case, just stick with low-prep, easy, and simple meals daily. That Ramadan planner? You probably don’t need it. Unless you use a planner daily for the other 11 months of the year, it will just end up collecting dust. Gifts? If it brings you joy, sure! If it brings you stress? Forget it. It’s not necessary. Save your energy for what is important.

Now, let’s get into the most stressful part as parents—making Ramadan something your kids love, enjoy, and look forward to. First and foremost, the most beneficial thing you can do for your children’s Ramadan is take care of yourself (and your spouse). Ramadan is a challenging, yet rewarding month for both mothers and fathers. Parents who are in a pleasant mood will make Ramadan much better for their kids than any decorations, activities, gifts, or parties. If you are decorating the house but you’re overtired, overwhelmed, and grumpy—what good are those decorations?

It’s more beneficial for the whole family to focus on what is important—ibadah, getting rest, eating simple and nutritious meals, and spending quality time with loved ones. You know what is more special than any material gift you may give your children? Eating suhoor together and hearing their uncontrollable giggles from the sleepiness of being woken up in the early morning. They will remember that. You will remember that. And it will become a beautiful memory to reminisce upon.

We need to clarify—this is not meant to discourage Ramadan traditions such as gifts and decorating, rather it’s to remind you to focus on the simple things and only do extra things if it’s within your capacity. But one thing we can all agree on is how much our mood affects our children’s moods. A smiling, forgiving, and peaceful mother and father is the most beautiful memory you can give your children in Ramadan, insha’Allah.