Understanding the basics of Islam is important for kids. It helps them lead a religious and dedicated life. By learning about Islam, kids can know how to pray, be kind, and follow the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Today, we will share with you all the basics of Islam that your kid must learn from the start.
There are many important things kids should know about Islam. They should learn about the basic concept and origin of Islam, why the Kalima Shahada is important, the pillars of Islam, such as praying and giving to charity, and the special days or holidays in Islam. If you want to know more about isalmic studies for kids, keep reading and exploring!
Basics of Islam for Kids to Learn and Understand Islam
1. The Basic Concept and Origin of Islam
Islam is a religion that teaches about one God, called Allah. It started in the 7th century in the city of Mecca, which is in modern-day Saudi Arabia. The founder of Islam is Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who was born in the year 570 CE. When Muhammad was about 40 years old, he received a message from Allah through the angel Gabriel. This message, called the Qur’an, contains the teachings of Islam.
The basic concept of Islam is to believe in one God and follow Muhammad’s teachings. Muslims believe that Muhammad is the final prophet sent by Allah to guide humanity. Islam teaches about being kind, fair, and helping others. Muslims pray five times a day and try to live according to the teachings of the Qur’an and the Hadith (sayings and actions of Muhammad).
2. The Importance of Kalima Shahada as a Muslim
The Kalima Shahada is: “La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur rasulullah.”
In the first part, “La ilaha illallah,” Muslims declare that there is no god but Allah. This emphasizes the belief in the oneness of Allah (SWT), which is the foundation of Islam. In the second part, “Muhammadur rasulullah,” Muslims affirm that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah (PBUH). This acknowledges the importance of following the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in living a righteous life.
3. Teach the Kids About the Pillars of Islam
In islamic studies for kindergarten teachers mostly teach students about the Pillars of Islam and its importance because they are like the building blocks of a Muslim’s faith. They guide Muslims on how to live their lives in a way that is pleasing to Allah (SWT) and beneficial to themselves and others.
| Pillar | Description |
| Shahada | Declaring belief in the oneness of Allah (SWT) and the prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH). |
| Salah | Performing five daily prayers to connect with Allah (SWT). |
| Zakat | Giving charity to those in need, usually a portion of one’s wealth. |
| Fast | Fasting during the month of Ramadan as a form of self-discipline and spiritual reflection. |
| Hajj | Making a pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca at least once in a lifetime, if able. |
4. Important Day (Holidays) in Islam
Understanding important holidays in Islam is crucial because they commemorate significant events in the faith’s history and provide opportunities for Muslims to deepen their spirituality and connection with Allah (SWT). With the help of an explanation of its importance, we can teach Islam to children.
| Holiday | Date | Description |
| Ramadan | 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar | Month of fasting from dawn to sunset to commemorate the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). |
| Eid al-Fitr | 1st day of Shawwal (10th month of Islamic calendar) | Celebration marking the end of Ramadan with prayers, feasting, and giving of charity. |
| Eid al-Adha | 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah (12th month of Islamic calendar) | Festival of Sacrifice commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son for Allah’s (SWT) command. |
| Mawlid al-Nabi | 12th Rabi’ al-awwal (3rd month of Islamic calendar) | Celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) with prayers and gatherings to learn about his life and teachings. |
5. Significance of Reading the Quran
Reading the Quran is super important because it’s like a guidebook for Muslims. It teaches us how to live a good life and be kind to others. The Quran has 114 chapters called surahs and over 6,000 verses called ayahs. It’s written in Arabic but translated into many languages so everyone can understand it.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “The best among you are those who learn the Quran and teach it.” This hadith shows how valuable the Quran is in Islam. Reading it helps us learn about Allah (SWT) and His teachings, making us better people.Top of Form
6. Important Prophetic Stories from the Quran
Learning important Prophetic stories from the Quran is essential because they teach valuable lessons and morals. These stories inspire us to be better people and understand Allah’s (SWT) wisdom.
| Prophet | Islamic Name | Description |
| Adam | Adam (AS) | First human created by Allah (SWT) and placed in paradise, teaches about repentance and forgiveness. |
| Nuh | Nuh (AS) | Built an ark to save believers from a flood, shows importance of faith and patience. |
| Ibrahim | Ibrahim (AS) | Tested by Allah (SWT) with various trials, including willingness to sacrifice his son, symbolizes unwavering faith. |
| Musa | Musa (AS) | Led the Israelites out of Egypt and received the Ten Commandments, emphasizes courage and obedience. |
| Isa | Isa (AS) | Born to Mary (AS) without a father, performed miracles, and preached about love and compassion. |
| Muhammad(PBUH) | Muhammad (PBUH) | Final prophet who received the Quran, exemplifies mercy, kindness, and devotion to Allah (SWT). |
7. Belief in the Angels
Belief in angels is important because they are special beings created by Allah (SWT) to carry out His commands and protect us. Knowing about angels helps us understand the unseen world and strengthens our faith in Allah’s (SWT) power and mercy.
| Angel | Islamic Name | Description |
| Jibril | Jibril (AS) | Also known as Gabriel, he brought Allah’s (SWT) messages to the prophets, including the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). |
| Mikail | Mikail (AS) | Responsible for providing sustenance and nourishment, ensuring Allah’s (SWT) blessings reach all creatures. |
| Israfil | Israfil (AS) | Will blow the trumpet on the Day of Judgment, signaling the end of the world and the resurrection of all beings. |
| Munkar and Nakir | Munkar and Nakir | Question souls in the grave about their faith and deeds, guiding them to their eternal fate in the afterlife. |
| Kiraman Katibin | Kiraman Katibin | Record the good and bad deeds of humans, serving as witnesses on the Day of Judgment. |
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8. Belief in the Day of Judgement
Belief in the Day of Judgment is crucial because it reminds us that our actions have consequences and that one day, we will be held accountable for them. It motivates us to do good deeds and avoid wrongdoing, knowing that we will face Allah’s (SWT) judgment.
Allah says in the Quran,
“So whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom’s weight of evil will see it.” (Quran 99:7-8)
This verse emphasizes that nothing we do, whether small or big, goes unnoticed by Allah (SWT) and will be considered on the Day of Judgment.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said,
“The first matter that the servant will be brought to account for on the Day of Judgment is the prayer. If it is sound, then the rest of his deeds will be sound. And if it is bad, then the rest of his deeds will be bad.” (Sunan al-Tirmidhi 413)
This hadith highlights the significance of the Day of Judgment and the importance of performing acts of worship sincerely and properly and also about the benefits of seeking knowledge in islam.
Final Words
Understanding the fundamentals of Islam is pivotal for children to develop a strong spiritual foundation. From learning about the basic concepts and pillars of Islam to appreciating the significance of key holidays and beliefs, each aspect contributes to their religious upbringing. Moreover, delving into Prophetic stories, the role of angels, and the Day of Judgment instills essential values and fosters a deep connection with Allah (SWT).
