As a parent, we can choose to create moments that help our child grow into a God-conscious and confident person. Building a bedtime routine is a beautiful reflection moment, making a deeper connection with your child and developing structure and stability in their daytime routine. In addition, research has also shown that it contributes to improved sleep.
Below are three practical Islamic bedtime routines to help nourish your child’s faith and inspire you as a parent with ideas.
1. Reflection & gratitude. The holy Quran beautifully and multiple times states the importance of valuing the signs Allah (swt) created and those who reflect on this. “And He has made subservient to you whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth, all, from Himself; most surely there are signs in this for a people who reflect.” (45:13)
Therefore, creating a moment for reflection on the day or something that amazed your child is an invaluable moment to incorporate into your bedtime routine.
Simple questions like, “What made this day special for you?” “What did you find the most beautiful or hardest thing today?” “What would you like to thank Allah (swt) for?
Your child may answer in a way that they can’t find an example. That is normal and an excellent opportunity to talk about the small things we take for granted sometimes. In these moments, we can open our children’s eyes to appreciate the small things, like how special it is that we have food to eat, that we are spending time together as a family, and to be thankful for our health.
2. Dua
Another vital part of the bedtime routine is reciting a dua. Even if your child can only recite a small prayer, it’s an invaluable way to increase their Taqwa. Let’s not take for granted the efforts and appreciate that at a young age, they are still finding their way to create a strong and loving bond with Allah (swt). A dua is a reflective moment to remind them to connect with Allah (swt) as their Creator.
3. Reading a book
Fun and heartwarming bedtime stories can help create positive feelings and help your child to relax. It’s another perfect moment for child-parent bonding. Uplifting stories can make them dream about what they want to do growing up. These stories help them learn to understand the world and become part of it.
Let’s foremost express in our bedtime routine to remember your child that Allah (swt) loves them. Instilling hope and love is essential to maintain a positive relationship with our beautiful religion during each moment of the day. Knowing Allah (swt) loves and wants the best for us brings deep comfort and being less worried about tomorrow. It is an encouraging thought to end the day with. After all, “Surely, in the remembrance of Allah (swt) that hearts find rest.” (13:28).
These were three practical (Islamic) tips to create a bedtime routine.
What is your favorite Islamic bedtime routine?
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