Parenting
How do I explain divorce to my kids as a Muslim?
Usually tell them together, calmly and honestly: it is not their fault and both parents still love them. Don't blame or ask them to pick a side.
Topic
Parenting
Raising Muslim children in Europe and North America. Short, honest answers for new Muslims.
Parenting
How do I explain dinosaurs and evolution to my Muslim child?
Yes: tell young children Allah made the dinosaurs, and tell older ones that scholars differ on evolution while most hold Adam was created directly.
Parenting
How did the Prophet Muhammad treat children?
The Prophet Muhammad treated children with kindness, play and patience. He kissed them, joked with them and never shamed them. Here are the stories.
Parenting
Do Muslims shave a baby's head after birth?
Yes, many Muslims shave a baby's head on the seventh day as a sunnah and give the weight of the hair in silver as charity. It isn't required.
Parenting
Do Muslim children take their father's last name?
Yes, usually: a child's lineage belongs to the father, shown by his surname, while stepchildren and adopted children keep their own father's name.
Parenting
Can my young son stay in the women's section at the mosque?
Yes, in most cases a young boy can stay with his mother. Mosques usually move boys to the men's section once they can pray properly; ask yours.
Parenting
Can my teen hang out with friends of the opposite gender?
It depends on the setting. Many families allow public group outings with clear rules, but not private one-on-one time. Explain the reasons calmly.
Parenting
Can my kids stay overnight with non-Muslim grandparents?
Yes, kids can stay overnight with non-Muslim grandparents. Islam values family ties; just agree on food, prayer, alcohol and TV rules beforehand.
Parenting
Can my daughter take ballet or dance classes?
It depends on her age and the class. Young girls in a girls-only class are usually fine; scholars become stricter as modesty rules apply near puberty.
Parenting
Can my child say the Pledge of Allegiance at school?
It depends on your family's view. Many scholars allow the Pledge as a civic promise, and standing quietly is fine too. Guide your child calmly.
Parenting
Can my child eat school lunch if it is not halal?
It depends on the food. A child should avoid pork and non-halal meat, but vegetarian meals, fish or a packed lunch are fine at school.
Parenting
Can Muslim kids collect Pokemon cards?
Yes, Muslim kids can collect Pokemon cards. Collecting is fine; set limits on random paid packs, teach fair trades and watch spending.
