Holidays are a time for celebration, togetherness and acknowledging the values you hold in your life. At Valley Children’s, we recognize the importance holidays hold within communities and invite you to celebrate them with us through our Celebrating Together blog series. This series highlights holidays throughout the year and displays the history and numerous ways you could celebrate them with your own community. In this installment, we would like to invite you to celebrate Ramadan, a period of fasting, charity, prayer and reflection.  

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is a scared month in the religion of Islam that marks important events and holidays for Muslims. During Ramadan, families will refrain from eating and drinking while it is light outside. Once the sun sets, families will meet for big meals that include traditional foods. Many people will also have a meal before the sun rises.  

For many who celebrate Ramadan, this period is a time to focus on their faith and perform generous acts. Through fasting, many can remind themselves about those throughout the world who have to go without food and use this time to raise money and supplies for those in need.  

After the last day of Ramadan, a three-day festival is held and families come together to celebrate known as Eid al-Fitr. Families tend to decorate their homes with lights and may exchange gifts. Fasting is also not allowed during this time, and many eat indulgences such as candies and pastries.  

How to Celebrate Ramadan with your Family?  

• Decorate for Ramadan. Try making this Moon Jar Lantern to add light to your home
• Find volunteer opportunities to do with your family or do other charitable acts in your community  
• Download a free coloring sheet  
• Visit your local library to check out a book about Ramadan
• Watch videos to learn more about Ramadan with your child  

For more information on how to celebrate Ramadan, visit one of the resources below.

https://parents.highlights.com/how-do-you-celebrate-ramadan

https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/ramadan

https://www.care.com/c/how-to-teach-kids-about-ramadan-through-celebration/