At Green Grass nursery, we respect all cultures and aim to teach our children about understanding the world around them.
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, and residents of Dubai of all faiths and cultures participate in promoting a culture of giving to the less fortunate and giving back to the community, in keeping with the spirit of Ramadan, as well as spending time with family and engaging in self-reflection.
From an early age, the early years’ teachers can start introducing the below concepts through children’s stories, role play and arts and design etc… keeping the EYFS as a starting point in everything we do.
Following are some suggestions for respectfully and age-appropriately introducing children to Ramadan:
- Start by describing how Muslims all over the world celebrate Ramadan as a holy month. Inform kids that this is a time for spiritual prayer, self-growth, and kindness.
- Inform kids about the fasting practiced during Ramadan. Describe how fasting means staying away from food and liquids from dawn to sunset.
- Talk about the significance of society during Ramadan. Describe how Muslims frequently come together for festivities, prayers, and meals. Give some examples of Ramadan-related practices and customs.
- In Ramadan, be sure to emphasize the value of giving and considering others. Talk about the idea of zakat, which is a type of charity used at this time.
- Discuss how the moon’s sighting determines when Ramadan starts and ends. Inform kids about the significance of the lunar cycle in Islamic culture.
- Encourage kids to reflect on their own actions and behaviors during Ramadan. Talk about the value of caring, gratitude, and forgiveness.
- Teach kids how to end the fast. Talk about the usual iftar food selections. Explain to your child that iftar is the meal that ends the fast.
- Encourage kids to ask questions about Islam and Ramadan. Encourage free discussion and provide a secure environment for questioning.
- Stress the value of being aware of and respecting other people’s cultural and religious traditions. Encourage kids to be tolerant and curious about different cultures’ traditions.
- Give children and families access to materials, such as books, videos, or websites, so they can learn more about Ramadan.
The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has announced shorter education hours, and the UAE Labour Law has announced reduced work hours.so At Green Grass nurseries, we reduced the operating hours to 2 hours per day.
GGN Management wishes you a blessed Ramadan
