Mumtaz Moosa | mumtazs@icloud.com
19 February 2025 | 12:15 CAT
3 min read

PHOTO CREDIT: Culture Custodian

As the countdown to Ramadhaan begins, many mums feel a deep sense of excitement, knowing they can experience this sacred month with their little ones. The thought of decorating the home, setting up prayer spaces, and sharing the beauty of fasting fills the heart with anticipation. However, as the days draw closer, the weight of responsibilities begins to creep in—meal preparations, school runs, and daily routines overshadow the initial excitement. Many mums wonder: Will this Ramadhaan be spiritually uplifting, or will it be exhausting and overwhelming?

Mamas, this is for you. We know the struggle—there never seem to be enough hours in the day, yet the to-do list is endless. But today, I want to remind you that a meaningful and fulfilling Ramadhaan is within your reach. It’s not about how much you do; it’s about the quality of what you do.

Ramadhaan is a time to connect deeply with Almighty Allah, reflect on our spiritual state, and work on our nafs (inner self) in preparation for the Aakhirah. Let’s shift focus from counting how often we complete the Qur’an or how many elaborate dishes we prepare to being present in our ibadah (worship). It is about sincerity, not quantity—read that again!

Making Ramadhaan Special for Your Little Ones

If you have young children, let them experience this month’s beauty without feeling pressured. Fasting is not a competition—it’s about teaching them patience, gratitude, and love for Allah. Encourage them to fast as much as possible, engage them in simple dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and nurture a deep connection with their Creator.

One simple yet powerful way to do this is by making reflection a daily habit. Ask your children: What are you most grateful for today? Help them understand that a good day is part of our rizq (sustenance) and that a difficult day is an invitation to turn to Allah in du’a. By guiding them in this, you are helping them build their faith and reinforcing your connection to Allah.

This is the perfect time for children six years and older to focus on perfecting their salaah. Many madrassahs only introduce formal prayer later, but Ramadhaan presents an opportunity to establish this habit at home gently. Let them pray alongside you, listen to short surahs, or even learn a new dua from YouTube. A small reward for their efforts can go a long way in making the learning process enjoyable. Remember, when they know, so do we—which is a powerful reminder of the continuous journey of faith.

For Mums with Newborns

To all the mums caring for newborns—know that your efforts are a form of ibadah. Rocking your baby to sleep, feeding them, and responding to their needs are acts of worship. If you can only manage a few lines of the Qur’an daily, know that even the smallest steps hold immense rewards. This month is not about comparing ourselves to others; it’s about strengthening our connection with Allah and the Qur’an in whatever capacity we can.

A Simple Yet Transformative Habit

Let’s normalise reading at least one of our favourite surahs in a language we understand. When we reflect on the meanings, our prayers become more heartfelt, our dua become more profound, and our connection to the Qur’an deepens. Understanding why a surah was revealed adds meaning to our worship and transforms how we approach our faith.

Managing the Home with Ease

This month is not about “khatming” (finishing) all the recipe books you have! 

Plan simple meals. It’s not about extravagant iftars—the nafs often trick us into thinking we need elaborate spreads, but we are drained when Maghrib arrives. Set designated kitchen times and take breaks to recite a few lines of the Qur’an, perform salaah, or engage in dhikr while cooking or driving. Balance is key.

Your children won’t be little forever—let them experience this month with you. Let them engage in acts of worship by your side. Ramadhaan is a time that teaches us the value and barakah of time itself, so each morning, ask Allah to place barakah in your day. You will be amazed at how much you can accomplish when entrust your time to Al-Rahim, the Most Merciful.

Some days, you’ll feel productive and connected. On other days, it may feel like you barely managed. That’s okay. Take a moment to reflect on the small mercies of the day, and you’ll realise that even in moments of exhaustion, there is an immense blessing.

May this Ramadhaan bring us closer to Allah S.W.T. May it be a month of spiritual growth, tranquillity, and love—one that leaves a lasting impression on our hearts and the hearts of our children. Ameen.