Ramadan is the GREATEST time of the year! But do your kids think so? Younger kids are most likely looking forward to all the treats that come with Islam’s most auspicious month while older kids might be worried about succeeding with fasting.

No matter what the age, parents can take the lead in pre-Ramadan planning to ensure a glorious month of worship and family-time!

Here’s how to get your family organized and energized for Ramadan!

1. Get excited for Ramadan first! Make dua (supplicate) in front of your children and ask Allah to allow you to reach your goals during the month of fasting. Tell your children, ‘I can’t wait for Ramadan!’ Count down to Ramadan with them on a calendar with big numbers, and announce it each day with joy and the excitement is sure to spread!

2. Plan it! Ask your children for advice on what the household goals should be for the month. Make a list and hang it on the wall; list goals such as reading the Quran, giving in charity, fasting attempts for younger kids and household chores that your kids can help with to make Ramadan beneficial for everyone.

3. Attend an Iftar meal at the local mosque or invite friends to your home for the breaking of the fast! Your children will be able to witness the beauty of everyone fasting together as a community and experience the joy of breaking the fast with others.

4. Offer to bring your kids with you when you offer the Taraweeh prayers. Being out in the late night and looking up at the moon and stars while walking into the masjid will uplift and inspire your kids. Hearing the beautiful recitation of the Quran and praying with a large number of other Muslims will also give your child’s faith a boost!

5. Keep up your child’s motivation throughout the month by rewarding him or her for reaching their daily Ramadan goals. You can do this by having a short dialogue at the end of the Iftar meal and giving them a chance to ask questions. You can also give your child small gifts, like stickers or coloring pages, to increase their enthusiasm.

Ramadan comes once a year and will be over before you know it. Make the most of it and get your kids excited about Ramadan before it arrives!