Meaningful Ramadan activities for families include reading the Quran and discussing its meaning, sharing short lessons with children, making simple decorations and preparing iftar for others. Keep these activities manageable so they support worship, reflection and generosity without allowing preparations to take over the day.
How can families read and reflect on the Quran together?
Set aside time to read a passage from the Quran and discuss its meaning together. Invite family members to share what they understand and how the verses relate to their lives.
Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was revealed:
“Ramadhan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur’an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (Should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful” .
(AlBaqra:185)
The purpose is to reflect on the Quran’s guidance and consider its meaning in daily life. Family reading can form part of a wider routine of worship in Ramadan.
What can you teach children about Ramadan?
A short daily lesson can introduce children to the meaning of Ramadan and the faith behind its practices. Make space for them to talk and ask questions about what they are learning.
It was narrated that Jundub bin ‘Abdullah said:
“We were with the Prophet (ﷺ), and we were strong youths, so we learned faith before we learned Qur’an. Then we learned Qur’an and our faith increased thereby.”
Help children connect Ramadan with faith as you discuss the month’s importance. When fasting becomes part of the conversation, see our guide to encouraging children to fast Ramadan.
How can children help welcome Ramadan?
Let children help make simple decorations or write greeting cards to share before the month begins. Extravagance is forbidden, so keep the preparations modest and in proportion to the purpose of Ramadan.
Sharing the good news of Ramadan is a Sunnah encouraged by the Prophet (ﷺ). It was narrated that Abu Hurairah said:
“The Messenger of Allah said: ‘There has come to you Ramadan, a blessed month, which Allah, the Mighty and Sublime, has enjoined you to fast. In it the gates of heavens are opened and the gates of Hell are closed, and every devil is chained up. In it Allah has a night which is better than a thousand months; whoever is deprived of its goodness is indeed deprived.”‘
How can you share iftar without overcomplicating it?
Share simple food with someone who is fasting, and remember people in need nearby. Avoid extravagant meals or preparations that take time away from worship and supplication.
An extra portion can be prepared alongside the family meal for a person in need. This keeps the act of giving manageable for the person preparing the food and brings together feeding a fasting person and charity.
Zaid bin Khalid Al-Juhani (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “He who provides a fasting person something with which to break his fast, will earn the same reward as the one who was observing the fast, without diminishing in any way the reward of the latter.”
[At-Tirmidhi].
How can you keep time for worship as a family?
Keep reading, lessons, decorations and meal preparations manageable, with worship at the centre of your plans. Give thought to your intention in each activity as you work towards making Ramadan a fresh start for worship.
For ongoing learning, Murouj Academy offers one-to-one Islamic studies for kids. Parents can meet some of our teachers in free trial classes and choose before committing.
Frequently asked questions
Which activity should we choose on a busy day?
Choose a manageable Quran passage, a short conversation with children or a simple meal to share. Keep the activity small enough to leave time for worship and your family’s responsibilities.
Can we share iftar with relatives as well as people in need?
Yes. Inviting relatives to eat with you can be part of feeding a fasting person, with the intention of seeking that reward, God willing.
Can these activities continue after Ramadan?
Yes. Family Quran reading and short faith lessons need not end with Ramadan. Continue what your family can manage as part of everyday learning and reflection.
