RAMADAN FOR KIDS

A Guide to Understanding and Celebrating

Children hold a special place in the Muslim community, and many parents involve them in Suhoor, Iftar, and prayers to help prepare them for fasting during Ramadan. Teaching children about Ramadan’s rules can sometimes feel overwhelming, but it’s essential to start early. That’s why Orphans in Need has created an easy-to-understand Ramadan for kids guide, simplifying the key concepts and traditions for young minds.

Do Children Fast During Ramadan?

Muslim children do not typically fast until they reach puberty. However, it is crucial to introduce them to the significance of fasting and its spiritual meaning. Non-Muslim children can also benefit from understanding why their Muslim peers participate in Ramadan. Our Ramadan facts for kids guide breaks down the basics, including why Ramadan is observed, how it is celebrated, and what fasting entails.

Ramadan Activities for Kids

Ramadan is more than just fasting—it’s a time for kindness, reflection, and learning. Parents can engage their children with meaningful Ramadan activities for kids such as helping with Suhoor, reading age-appropriate stories about the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), or assisting with charity projects like packing food for the less fortunate. Encouraging children to take part in Sadaqah (charitable deeds) can teach them the importance of generosity during this sacred month.

What Is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, commemorating the time when the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). It’s a time when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset and focus on prayer, reflection, and charity. The exact start of Ramadan depends on the sighting of the new moon, which changes each year due to the lunar calendar.

What Happens at Suhoor and Iftar?

During Ramadan, Muslims eat two meals a day: Suhoor (before dawn) and Iftar (after sunset). Suhoor is often a simple but nutritious meal that provides energy for the day ahead, while Iftar is the meal that breaks the fast. Dates are traditionally eaten at both meals, following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Drinking plenty of water during these times is also important to stay hydrated throughout the day.

When is Ramadan 2025?

Ramadan 2025 is predicted to take place on the evening of either Friday, 28th February or on Saturday 1st March 2025. It is strongly advised to contact your local mosque council for an accurate date.

What Happens if the Fast is Broken?

If a Muslim breaks the fast without a valid reason, such as illness, he has to pay Kaffarah. It can be paid in two ways:

• Fast for an extra 60 consecutive days
• Make a charitable donation that is enough to feed 60 poor people from staple food.

What are the Rules of Fasting?

The biggest part of Ramadan is fasting. There are certain rules for fasting, and some exceptions are given to those who are not able to fast.

People who don’t have to fast are:

• Children under the age of puberty (normally aged 12 years and under).
• Older adults who are frail.
• People who are sick and on regular medication from the doctor.
• People who are travelling.
• Women who are pregnant, breastfeeding or who are on their period.

If a Muslim misses a fast of Ramadan, he should try to fast at a different time of the year instead. Those who cannot fast at all, even at a later date, should pay Fidya – a donation made to feed one poor person for each missed day.

Everyone else should fast during the day, which means no eating or drinking (not even water) in the daytime.

Ramadan Gifts for Kids

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan therefore no one fasts on the day of Eid because fasting on the day of Eid is prohibited. It is a time of joy and celebration.

On Eid, families and friends gather for a special meal, and children often receive Ramadan gifts for kids such as toys, clothes, or Eid money. These gifts symbolise love, unity, and the blessings of Ramadan. During Eid, it’s also a tradition to give charity, ensuring that everyone in the community can share in the festivities.