2024 Ramadan: 5 vital guidelines for parents to help their kids observe fasting

Families get together throughout Ramadan to respect their beliefs by fasting, praying, and reflecting. This holiday has a special meaning. Parents everywhere are preparing for this spiritual trip during this holy month. If you’re a parent, you may be wondering how to meaningfully and age-appropriately introduce fasting to your kids. Ensuring your children have a smooth and healthy Ramadan is very important. Here are five essential pointers to help parents support their children who are fasting during this holy time.

Promote a wholesome Suhoor:
The meal before dawn, known as suhoor, is crucial for sustaining energy levels throughout the day. Urge your kids to eat a well-balanced diet, which should consist of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbs. For sustaining energy throughout the fasting hours, choose items like whole grains, eggs, fruits, and dairy products.

Keep them hydrated.

Water is important throughout Ramadan, particularly for young people who can find it difficult to fast for long periods of time. To avoid dehydration during non-fasting hours, encourage your kids to drink plenty of water. Steer clear of caffeine-containing and sugar-filled beverages since they might exacerbate weariness and thirst.

At iftar, the meal to break the fast, it might be tempting to overindulge in rich, heavy dishes. However, moderation should always be encouraged. Choose meals that are balanced, nutrient-dense, and restore energy without taxing the digestive system. Make sure they consume a lot of fruits, veggies, lean meats, and whole grains to provide them with essential nutrients.

Encourage rest and relaxation.

Fasting, particularly for young children, may be taxing on the body and mind. Throughout Ramadan, teach your kids that rest and relaxation come first. Make sure they get enough sleep each night to maintain their general health. To save energy, promote peaceful pursuits throughout the day, such as reading, painting, or relaxing music listening.

Establish a Ramadan schedule.
During Ramadan, children may find solace in a routine that is known to them. This may include having special prayers, reading Ramadan tales aloud, or establishing strict schedules for Suhoor and Iftar.