Celebrate Eid Al Adha With Kids for a Memorable Eid Day
It’s almost time to celebrate Eid Al-Adha with kids, family, and friends. A sister from IQRA has shared some fun ways to celebrate this special occasion.
Unlike Eid Al Fitr where we get 30 days to prepare, it seems Eid Al Adha sneaks up on us.
There is often less effort into making it a memorable and fun Eid simply because we forget. With Ramadan, we fast the whole month and wait in anticipation for Eid. However, both Eids are special for Muslims and a time we’re supposed to honor. We celebrate the praises of Allah and enjoy the good things He has given us.
Making Eid Al Adha fun doesn’t have to be a complicated task. It doesn’t have to take a lot of time or money. A fun Eid includes family time, doing a few activities, and enjoying a meal together.
Memorable moments are born from sharing experiences. Stories of parents having Eid Al Adha “back home” meant they all went to the farm and slaughtered their animals. There is the hustle and bustle of cooking a meal with the meat. Of course, there’s also the excitement and freedom of playing outside.
For most children in the West, Eid Al Adha is not like that, and that’s okay. We can enjoy Eid based on the norms of our society. The idea is to make it something special by paying it special attention!
Creating a Theme
Creating a theme is a quick and easy way to get the fun rolling. One of our readers shared with us how they create a theme for Eid and make games surrounding that. Some of the theme ideas that they have done were:
- Privates
- Books
- Bugs
- Sports
- Board Games
- Chocolate Factory
- Under the Seas
- Desert Theme
- Around the World
- Tea Party
- Ninjas
- Owls
While you can find many party supplies for these themes, you don’t have to go that route as it can get costly. Consider using things around the house to cover the walls and make the house look different than it usually is.
Examples of this could be:
- For a candy theme, our reader took mini chocolate and candies and strung them up to make streamers. Dressing up as an Oompa Loompa, they said, was a lot of fun too!
- Almost everyone has brown Amazon packaging paper somewhere around the house. Cut those in dunes and stick them on the wall. Use some wrapping paper rolls and green tissue paper to make palm trees. An added touch could be printouts of camel silhouettes.
- For board games, you can create a giant chess board with the same Amazon paper or craft paper and stick it on the wall. Or put tape on your carpet to make a checkered board. Get family members to be the pieces! Or buy board games and play them as a family.
- For something like Under the Sea, our reader used balloons with steamers to make jellyfish and filled a bed sheet with balloons to create a whale.
A little imagination goes a long way. Involve your kids in these quick crafts, and don’t worry about making them perfect. Just enjoy the process!
Dress Up
Of course, on Eid day, you don’t want your son going for Eid salat as a pirate or a squid, but after that, why not? Children love dressing up! Knowing that they can jump out of their pretty Eid clothes into imaginative play is exciting. It gets even better when parents can participate too with simple things like a hat or a foam sword.
Games
Making Eid Al Adha fun means there’s something to do during the day. In Ramadan, many of us parents are drained due to late nights and suhoor. But for Eid Al Adha, we should be fully energized to participate in fun activities.
These activities also don’t have to be elaborate in any way. It can be as simple as guessing how many M&M’s are in the jar. You can do scavenger hunts, or, if you have older kids, play a team video game (Jeopardy, maybe?). Things such as contests with mind games like sudoku or mazes are fun.
For the board game theme, our reader drew a giant Sukodu on cardboard and hung it up as a decoration. The person that managed to finish the puzzle won a prize. For their bug theme, they had a pail filled with crushed Oreos and gummy worms. Children then dug in the bucket to find worms (and eat them!).
Games such as charades are easy to do and inexpensive. All ages can play, plus getting silly is a lot of fun. A play dough contest is also a fun way to get everyone involved. Put everyone in pairs and have them make something like a dolphin, then get an elder in the family to judge. The best dolphin wins!
The sky is the limit with these activities. You don’t have to worry about going out to make it fun.
The best way to make Eid fun is for everyone to put their phones away and enjoy the moment. Get silly. Get a little creative. Bring out the crayons, play dough, or jump into the kitchen if you like! Maybe challenge each team to make the best smoothie or dessert remix out of the Eid goodies already there.
Make Eid Al Adha Fun with Fun Food
Children love their junk food, and many adults do too! Nothing is quite as fun as creating different foods to follow the theme. It’s amazing how creative children can become when coming up with theme food ideas.
Different food ideas can be the type of cookies you make, how you decorate the cake, or have someone decorate it. It could be cake pops or even the kind of drinks you serve. A popular Eid Al Adha food is making cookies that look like sheep. Or using marshmallows to make sheep. A quick google search, and you’ll find plenty of fun food ideas.
Let Go and Be Happy
Parents try not to worry about making a mess. You can curb your anxiety about having to clean up by setting up an area where everyone can make a mess freely (i.e., outside, on a drop sheet, etc.). Also, be sure to include children in the clean-up process. Part of having family fun is being responsible and helping each other. Children feel motivated to help and support each other when they get the attention they crave. Sharing laughs and smiles are what children enjoy the most!
If you’re doing anything this Eid Al Adha, share it with us! Also, comment with any ideas about games, themes, and food fun.
After a long year of hard work and accomplishments whether memorizing one verse or the whole Quran, it is time to let go and celebrate Eid Al Adha with kids, families and friends. So Wishing you a blessed and joyous Eid Al-Adha!
![Understanding Islam: Delving Deeper into 0ther Beliefs and Practices Islam is not just a religion, but a comprehensive way of life that extends beyond the regular practice of prayers and fasting. In this blog, we venture beyond the common understanding of Islam to explore 'what is Islam other beliefs?' We delve into the multi-dimensional aspects of Islam, unpacking its spiritual, ethical, social, and legal systems, while also shedding light on its practices and beliefs that intersect with hope and inspiration. Belief in Islam: Beyond the Five Pillars Islam is commonly associated with its five pillars - the shahada (faith), salat (prayer), zakat (charity), sawm (fasting), and the Hajj (pilgrimage). However, the beliefs of Islam extend far beyond these core practices. A critical element of Islam is belief in the divine destiny or Qadr. According to a Hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari, Qadr encompasses both the good and the evil, contributing to a Muslim’s resilience and hope during challenging times. "...Everything is predetermined by Allah, even laziness and intelligence." (Sahih al-Bukhari 6614) In addition, Islam emphasizes the concept of Akhlaq, or good moral conduct. As illustrated in the Quran, "...do what is beautiful. Allah loves those who do what is beautiful." (Quran, 2:195). These teachings stir inspiration and encourage a morally grounded lifestyle. Practice of Islam: An All-Encompassing Way of Life Practice in Islam goes beyond religious rituals, encapsulating every aspect of daily life. It’s a holistic approach, incorporating aspects of ethics, spirituality, and societal interactions. From business ethics to family ties and environmental stewardship, all spheres of life are governed by the principles of Islam, fostering a harmonious existence for both the individual and the community. Islamic teachings inspire Muslims to continuously strive for growth, improvement and to contribute positively to society. An example can be found in the hadith: "The best people are those most beneficial to people" (Sahih Muslim 2588). Insha'Allah, such principles nurture a sense of hope and serve as a living testament to the universality and comprehensiveness of Islam. Further Understanding Islam While this post delves into some aspects of Islam beyond the commonly understood facets, there's more to learn. Here at IQRA Network, we invite you to further explore Islam's beliefs and practices, continuing on this journey of understanding, hope, and inspiration. More sections can be added to delve into the various sub-themes and topics that arise when exploring 'what is Islam other beliefs?' Social Aspects of Islam Islam is not just about a personal relationship with the divine but also connects Muslims socially and ethically. It promotes brotherhood and peace, with guidelines aimed at fostering respectful and caring relations within the community and beyond. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated, "None of you will truly believe until you love for your brother what you love for yourself." (Sahih al-Bukhari 13). Masha'Allah, this communal spirit reflects in the way Ramadan, Eid and other Islamic events bring Muslims together, inspiring harmony and fellowship. Islam also intersects with societal obligations, creating a sense of social justice. It stipulates rights and protection for every individual, regardless of their social or economic standing. As the Quran states, "...And do not deprive people of their due..." (Quran, 26:183). Therefore, Islam fosters a holistic approach to life, encouraging mutual respect, compassion, and fairness in every walk of life. Islam and Inner Peace Beyond its outward practices, Islam also emphasizes inner peace and tranquillity. It encourages mindfulness and peace, and a divine connection fosters contentment in followers. The Quran says, "Those who believe, their hearts find rest in Allah's remembrance. Isn't it in the remembrance of Allah that hearts find rest?" (Quran, 13:28). Thus, Islam provides a constant source of comfort, allowing Muslims to remain hopeful even in times of trial and tribulation. Moreover, the soul's purification is a crucial aspect of Islamic belief, and practices like Salah (prayer) and Zakat (charity) are tools for spiritual cleansing. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Prayer is a light; charity is proof [of one's faith]..." (Sahih Muslim 1). Thus, these practices not only fulfill religious duties but also infuse a sense of peace and clarity, adding a broader dimension to 'what is Islam other beliefs?' Islam's Emphasis on Knowledge Islam encourages its followers to be seekers of knowledge. From learning about the universe, human behaviour, to the teachings within the Quran, the pursuit of knowledge is seen as a form of worship. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) imparted, "Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim." (Sunan Ibn Majah 224). SubhanAllah, this teaching inspires hope, curiosity, and a lifelong commitment to understanding and growth. The Quran itself is seen as the primary source of knowledge, guiding Muslims in all aspects of life. The Quran states, "This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah" (Quran, 2:2). At IQRA Network, we understand how critical this guidance is, and through our various learning programs, we aim to help our students navigate through life's journey with wisdom and understanding. The Universality of Islam While born in the Arabian Peninsula, Islam's teachings are universal, transcending cultural, racial, and geographical boundaries. At its core, Islam propounds the belief in the oneness of God and the unity of mankind, exemplified by the annual Hajj pilgrimage where Muslims from around the world converge in Mecca in a display of global unity. Islam embraces cultural diversity and advocates for equality, affirming that no individual is superior over another except by virtue and piety. As emphasized in the Quran, "0 mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you peoples and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you." (Quran, 49:13). This principle of inclusivity and equality propels the message of unity, enriching the multilayered narrative of 'what is Islam other beliefs?' Islam and Environmental Stewardship Within the broad spectrum of Islamic teachings, there's also a distinct emphasis on environmental stewardship. Environmental rights are embedded in Islamic principles, implying the conservation, sustainable use, and equitable sharing of natural resources. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) once said: "The world is green and beautiful, and Allah has appointed you his stewards over it." (Sahih Muslim 1702). Alhamdulillah, these divine guidelines encourage responsible utilization, drawing a perfect balance between man and nature. The concept of "tawheed" or the oneness of God extends to the unity of nature, reminding Muslims of their duty towards the environment. This belief is backed by the Quran, which says: "...And there is no creature on [or within] the earth or bird that flies with its wings except [that they are] communities like you..." (Quran, 6:38). Consequently, respecting and caring for all living beings brings us a step closer to understanding 'what is Islam other beliefs?' The Role of Charity in Islam Within Islam, charity is more than a noble act; it's a fundamental pillar that shapes the believer's character and actions. Disbursing from one's wealth to support those in need creates a sense of community and solidarity. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated: "Give charity without delay, for it stands in the way of calamity." (Tirmidhi Vol. 6, Book 45, Hadith 2487). This notion fuels the spirit of selflessness and mutual care. The significance of charity is further reinforced in the Quran: "The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills..." (Quran, 2:261). Thus, practicing charity in Islam manifests a commitment to safeguarding social justice and equality, contributing to this quest to understand 'what is Islam other beliefs?' Health and Hygiene in Islam Health and hygiene are integral parts of Islam. Muslims are encouraged to maintain a healthy body and mind to fully realize their potential and fulfill their religious and social responsibilities. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "There are two blessings which many people lose: (They are) health and free time for doing good." (Sahih al-Bukhari 6412). Insha'Allah, these teachings imbue the vital importance of health preservation, constituting a significant part of 'what is Islam other beliefs?'. Hygiene also holds a prominent place in Islamic teachings. Regular ablutions, cleanliness during prayer and the call for personal hygiene underline this emphasis. As the Quran states, "... Allah loves those who turn to Him constantly and He loves those who keep themselves pure and clean." (Quran, 2:222). Thus, the coupling of health and hygiene reflects the comprehensive approach Islam adopts to ensure the well-being of its followers. Islam and Family Life Family occupies a central role in the social structure of Islam. Establishing harmonious family relations provides a secure and nurturing environment, promoting peace and stability. As the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "The best of you is the one who is best to his family..." (Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3252). SubhanAllah, these teachings resonate with the values of love, respect, and care. The Quran also sheds light on the mutual rights and responsibilities of family members, contributing to a balanced family system. For instance, it emphasizes upon children's respect for parents, with the verse, "...do not say to them [so much as], 'uff,' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word." (Quran, 17:23). So, exploring 'what is Islam other beliefs?' unveils a comprehensive framework that guides individuals in fulfilling their familial roles effectively, creating a harmonious society. Women's Rights in Islam Contrary to popular misconceptions, Islam holds women in high esteem, offering them a balance of rights and responsibilities. The Quran highlights the importance of women's rights and their equal standing with men: "And their Lord responded to them, 'Never will I allow to be lost the work of [any] worker among you, whether male or female; you are of one another...'" (Quran, 3:195). Masha'Allah, Islam promotes equality, advocating for women's participation in various aspects of life, from religious to social and economic spheres. The Prophetic tradition also underlines the respect and kindness due to women. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught, "The best among you are those who are best to their wives." (Ibn Majah Vol. 3, Book 9, Hadith 1978). These teachings of equity and respect add another layer as we explore 'what is Islam other beliefs?'. Conclusion Providing a snapshot of 'what is Islam other beliefs?' uncovers a rich and comprehensive way of life that extends beyond prayer and fasting. Islam offers guidance on various aspects of life, encompassing belief systems and practices that inspire hope and promote spiritual, moral, and social well-being. It encourages peace, promotes knowledge and charity, respects diversity, advocates environmental stewardship, upholds family values, and emphasises health and hygiene. As we delve deeper into the teachings of Islam, we appreciate its universality and inclusiveness, recognizing how its practices nourish the mind, heart, and soul. Insha'Allah, as we study and reflect upon these teachings at IQRA Network, we navigate a path filled with wisdom, benefiting ourselves and those around us.](https://iqranetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Beliefs-and-Practices.png)
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