What if a child cries during Jumu'ah?
Stay calm: a crying child at Jumu'ah is completely normal. Most mosques expect it and would rather see families than empty rooms. Try to soothe your child, and if the crying continues, step out quietly, calm them down and come back when you can. Nobody is judging you as much as you fear.
The Prophet ﷺ understood crying children
The Prophet ﷺ said that he sometimes began a prayer intending to make it long, then heard a child crying and made it shorter, because he did not want to cause hardship for the child's mother (Sunan an-Nasa'i 825). That shows how gentle Islam is with parents. A baby's cry is not a sin, and you are not wrong for being there.
What to do in the moment
- Try the simple things first: a cuddle, a bottle, a quiet snack or a gentle pat.
- Move if you need to. Step to the back, a side corridor or the entrance area so you do not disturb the rows.
- Go outside if the crying carries on. Walk, settle your child and return for the rest of the khutbah or the prayer.
- Use a family or parents' room if your mosque has one. Many English-speaking mosques in Europe and the USA do, often with a speaker or screen.
The khutbah (the Friday sermon) is part of Jumu'ah, so try not to miss all of it. Even if you hear only part, the effort counts. If you are praying alone with a baby, take it one moment at a time.
Prepare before you leave home
- Feed your child and change their nappy (diaper) before you go.
- Bring a quiet toy, a small picture book or a snack that is not messy.
- Arrive early so you can pick a spot near the back or an exit.
- Check that your child's clothing is clean, as the prayer area must be pure.
If someone is unkind
Occasionally a person may tut or give a look. Try not to take it to heart. The Prophet ﷺ was kind to children and parents, and most worshippers feel the same. If the mosque has a rule that really does not suit families, politely suggest a parents' space to the committee. For more on bringing children, see the general guide. See Can I bring my kids to the mosque? If you want to know what is expected during the sermon, read about etiquette. See What is mosque etiquette in Islam?
- A crying child is normal and not a sin.
- The Prophet ﷺ shortened prayer out of mercy for a child's mother.
- Step out calmly if needed and return when your child settles.
- Feed, change and prepare your child before you leave home.
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