Salaam - Wanting to Raise My Son with Islamic Teachings, Where Do I Begin?
As-salaamu alaykum - first time mom-to-be here (25w 🤰). Maybe it’s a bit early to be thinking about this…? 😂 But I already feel a strong desire, Insha’Allah, to raise my unborn baby boy on Islamic values, shaping his character and habits around our faith. Me and my husband are practicing Muslims, but we’re far from perfect and still learning every day. I want to teach him the basics - the pillars, simple duas, and the beautiful stories of the Prophets - in a gentle, age-appropriate way. In our community it’s common for kids to attend weekly Islamic classes alongside regular school. Coming from a desi background, I’ve also seen a lot of bid’ah and practices that edge toward shirk being followed by well-meaning elders who believe they’re pleasing Allah, and sometimes they insist others join too (even when we try to respond with Quran and hadith). That’s part of why I’m motivated to re-learn Islam properly and share what I understand with my children. I’ve already started reciting Quran aloud so the baby can hear. I’m also thinking of buying some Islamic books for kids. Any practical ideas on how to introduce Islamic teachings to a little one? What activities, routines, or resources worked for you - stories, picture books, nasheeds, short duas, simple craft ideas, or family routines? And could you recommend specific children’s books that are reliable and engaging? Jazakum Allahu khayr for any tips or book suggestions! 🙂