Ramadan 2011 - Family Resources

I can't believe its already August! And Ramadan is here!! A time to slow down and be mindful of ourselves, spiritually and physically, and of those around us in our communities, family and friends.

Of course I think that should be a daily thing for us all - but life gets in the way sometimes. Like for me, my intense anticipation of Ava starting school has been bubbling up inside of me for the past month now- so I'm not completely myself these days. Everything feels so rushed, even maddening at times. We're even taking on some home renovations too... and well, there's finances to contend with... and the list goes on.

Yesterday was the first day of Ramadan... {exhaling}... and I'm looking forward to the next 29 days of practicing these better habits. Over the course of the month we'll be posting Ramadan related stories... and Eid celebration ideas, but for now, I wanted to share with you a few of my favorite resources about our holiday:

Educational References
What is Ramadan? -  Wikipedia, BBC News, and About.com 
The Whitehouse - President Obama's Message



Curriculum and Teaching Ideas
Lifetime Learning at Home - A wonderfully organized homeschool blog outlining projects and teachings for preschoolers.


Books

My First Ramadan by Karen Katz. I bought this book several years ago and its genuinely a great book to introduce children to Ramadan basics and cultural traditions practiced all over the world. Ava loved all of Katz' books as a toddler. Her lift-the-flap books mimic curiosity while others integrate lessons about sharing, being a big sister, and even controlling emotions - all are so graphically portrayed through color and exaggerated shapes. So to have this book as part of our collection by Katz, is a lot of fun.

Reading scripture from the Quran is essential - and a copy of My First Quran Storybook is a great foundation to start with. Written for the younger set in mind, this is a great book to read together as a family and explore the historical time line of how things came to "Be" as well as the moral messages and teachings. It also sparks great conversation - like the Story of Prophet Noah - and the kids want to know "why?" Growing up, I learned not to question the stories from our Holy Book. Seeing my own children ask in the same wonder, compels us to openly discuss and share what we each think. And of course, there will be open ended responses, that even they are content with. These are treasured conversations indeed.

There are terrific online resources too - from educational teachings ideas, photography from all over the world. Here are my favorite picks:


Creativity

Used with permission: Ramadan Joy

Ramadan Joy is a creative companion for families during the month of Ramadan, and includes wonderful arts and crafts ideas, fun recipes, sewing projects, and gift ideas. The "Ramadan Joy" and the "Barakah Life handmade" blogs are part of Barakah Life, a Creative Living company offering products, classes and workshops. Owner Khadija is also co-founder of  Creativity and the Spiritual Path, a platform of creative conversations, with artist Peter Gould {also worth checking out! especially his artwork for kids!!}

Used with permission: Handmade Beginnings

I'm also in love with Handmade Beginnings - this Mom's entire blog is dedicated to nourishing and educating beginnings with her own children - from Islamic teachings, to Montessori lesson plans, as well as ideas for crafts, recipes, and so much more. Check out her blog for ideas and daily inspiration!

Crayola never disappoints - we've used their coloring pages last year - and plan to again this year. There are other ideas for older children to try their hand at geometric art and portraits.

Photography
Photography has a special place in my heart. And it sings when the kids get behind the lens too, or browse through pictures with a sincere appreciation and remembrance of the moment passed. Looking at Ramadan photos from around the world - makes us feel smaller, yet collective.. and of course, makes us crave traveling to see these these places for ourselves...

Times Live,  The Washington Post, USA Today and of course, Peter Gould!