Can my kids get Christmas presents from their non-Muslim grandparents?
Yes, they can. Accepting a gift from loving grandparents is part of keeping family ties, which Islam strongly encourages. The gift itself should be halal and suitable for a child, and your kids can say a warm thank you without joining in the religious side of the holiday.
Why accepting is fine
The Prophet ﷺ "used to accept gifts and used to give something in return" (Sahih al-Bukhari 2585). He even accepted a gift from Ukaidir, a Christian ruler of Dauma (Sahih al-Bukhari 2616). Several classical scholars, such as Ibn Taymiyyah, said Muslims may accept gifts from non-Muslims given on their festival, as long as the gift isn't something used in the celebration or worship.
Grandparents also have a special place. When Asma's mother, who wasn't Muslim, came to visit, the Prophet ﷺ told Asma: "Yes, keep good relation with her" (Sahih al-Bukhari 2620). Your parents giving their grandchildren presents is often their way of showing love, especially if they're still adjusting to your new faith.
What to check in the gift
- Toys, books, clothes and games: these are fine, just like any other gift.
- Sweets: check for gelatin, alcohol or other non-halal ingredients. Swap them quietly for halal treats.
- Religious items: a crucifix, nativity set or children's Bible meant to teach Christian belief isn't something to keep for your child. Thank them and set it aside kindly.
- Media: movies or games with content you wouldn't allow at other times stay off-limits in December too.
Talking to the grandparents
Have a calm chat before the holidays, not on the day. You might say: "The kids love you so much, and gifts from you are always welcome. We just keep away from religious items and pork or alcohol in sweets." Most grandparents are relieved to know they can still spoil the kids.
Some families gently suggest a "winter gift" or invite grandparents to give presents at Eid as well. That way your kids connect gifts with their own celebration too. See Can I give my family gifts on Eid instead of Christmas? For your own gift exchanges, see Can I still exchange Christmas gifts with my family as a Muslim?
Teaching gratitude
Help your kids write a thank-you card or call Grandma to say how much they love the gift. Thank Allah together too, and explain that Allah put love for them in their grandparents' hearts. Good manners toward family are part of being Muslim.
- Children can accept presents from non-Muslim grandparents.
- The Prophet ﷺ accepted gifts, including from Christians.
- Check sweets and avoid religious items meant for worship.
- Talk to grandparents kindly before the holidays.
People also ask
Can I go to a Christmas carol concert as a Muslim?
It depends: a school or community concert is treated more leniently than a church carol service. Muslims don't sing hymns calling Jesus God.
Read the full answer →Can I eat the chocolate from an Advent calendar?
Yes, the chocolate is halal if its ingredients are. The countdown custom is another matter: many scholars discourage adopting it.
Read the full answer →Can I give my family gifts on Eid instead of Christmas?
Yes, and it's a beautiful idea. Eid is your festival now; give family gifts then and explain it warmly so they feel included.
Read the full answer →Can I invite my non-Muslim family to Eid?
Yes, and it's a great idea. How to invite non-Muslim parents and relatives to an Eid meal, prayer or mosque event.
Read the full answer →Can I still exchange Christmas gifts with my family as a Muslim?
Yes, according to many scholars: accepting gifts is allowed, giving at Christmas is debated. Avoid alcohol, pork and religious items.
Read the full answer →