As Ramadan comes to an end, we prepare to welcome the joyous days of Eid al-Fitr, a time when families revive beautiful traditions and engage in beloved rituals passed down through generations. Preserving these practices helps maintain the cohesion and bond of the Arab family, and teaching them to children ensures the continuation of this cultural heritage.
Mothers play a key role in introducing children to these customs, encouraging them to participate and understand their meaning. According to educational consultant Dr. Darin Abdullah, there are several Eid traditions that can be taught to children, including respecting elders, giving Eid greetings and gifts, sharing with the needy, and more.
1. Choosing and Preparing Eid Clothes
It’s important to involve children in selecting their Eid outfits. Take children who can walk on their own to stores so they can pick what they like. This fosters independence and joy, while mothers can guide them gently to make suitable choices.
Teach children about the tradition of wearing new clothes for Eid.
Share your childhood memories of preparing for Eid, hiding new clothes under the bed, or hugging them excitedly before the celebration.
Choose comfortable fabrics, preferably cotton, that suit the child’s skin tone and allow for active play throughout the day.
2. Spiritual and Family Rituals on Eid Morning
Wake children early so they can accompany their fathers to Eid prayer at the mosque.
Dress them in their special Eid clothes and remind them to groom and perfume themselves before leaving.
Prepare breakfast at home for the family when they return, emphasizing that Eid mornings start early so the family can enjoy visiting relatives or going out for recreation.
3. Receiving Eid Money (Eidiya)
Teach children the importance of gratitude when receiving money from elders, especially men such as fathers, grandfathers, and uncles.
Instruct them on proper etiquette, like greeting with a handshake, hug, or verbal expression of thanks.
Encourage saving a portion of their Eid money in a piggy bank or letting the mother hold it and give small amounts gradually, instead of spending everything immediately.
4. Respecting Elders on Eid
Make it a point for children to greet grandparents first at home, with hugs, kisses, and Eid greetings before leaving.
Children learn the value of elders by seeing their parents show respect.
Encourage children to offer Eid sweets to grandparents themselves to feel the joy of giving and appreciation.
5. Visiting Relatives and Friends
Always include children in family visits during Eid to maintain family ties and teach social connection.
Educate them on proper manners and etiquette while visiting others.
Teach children to play gently with other children’s toys, respecting boundaries, and to enjoy shared play areas responsibly.
6. Charity and Helping the Needy on Eid
Explain to children the wisdom of charity during Eid, helping the poor and spreading joy.
Take children to distribute Zakat al-Fitr or small gifts before Eid.
Visit orphanages on the second day of Eid, bringing toys, balloons, and sweets, and let children hand out gifts themselves.
Encourage gentle acts, like patting children on the head, teaching them compassion and the value of helping others.
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