Dhul Hijjah is right around the corner. That means, it’s time for Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Makkah. Hajj often tends to be exclusive to those making the pilgrimage. Much of the planning to bring the Hajj spirit alive into our homes and teaching about hajj to our children, similar to how we do in Ramadan, remains absent at many homes. Hajj is the journey of a lifetime and a ritual every Muslim children should know about even if they do not understand the awe, wonder, and connection to Allah swt it inspires. As parents, it is our responsibility to teach our children about Hajj and the importance of this journey of a lifetime.

Count down to Eid ul Adha in a fun and educational way. Whether you have a toddler, per-schooler, grade-schooler or a teen, this list of ideas are a great way to start teaching your children the age-appropriate meaning and importance of hajj.

1. Start with the 5 pillars of Islam: Start by reminding your child that Hajj is one of the 5 pillars of Islam. It is obligatory on all able Muslims of financial means to perform hajj. So even if they don’t know anyone who is going to hajj or who has been to hajj, it is important to teach them that they should perform the pilgrimage at some point in their life. Teach the obligations and virtues of hajj. Even if your child knows about the pillars of Islam, highlight the time of hajj to them every year.

2. Read Books about Hajj: Reading is a great way to get a point across. Kids love stories. Read to them about Hajj, the significance and the Islamic traditions of Hajj. Here’s a fabulous list of Hajj books for ages 2-17.

3. Teach Children about the Kabaa: The kabaa is a significant part of performing hajj. Depending on the age of your child, you can teach them about the history, and importance about the kabaa. At a minimum, teach them, as stated in the Quran, that the Kaaba was the first House of Worship, and that it was built by Ibrahim(as) and Ismail(as) on Allah’s instructions. That the Kabaa is Bayt Allah, The House of Allah. During hajj, hajji’s circuit around the kabaa 7 times which is referred as tawaf. If you have a teen, ask them to research the history of kabaa or keep up with hajj news to relay it to the family. You can show them photos of Kabaa and also create a Kabaa craft following the instructions here.

4. Tell them the story of Zamzam: Introduce the story of Hajar (as) running between Safa and Marwah searching for a drop of water for her son, Ismael (as), and how zamzam was created. Find a video on the subject if you’d like to watch the story of zamzam together as a family.

5. Share the story of Ibrahim (AS)’s sacrifice: Hajj reminds us of the noble family of Ibrahim (as). Depending on the age of the child, when teaching the story of the divine sacrifice of Ibrahim (as), give your child examples that they can sacrifice their anger, bad behavior, etc. for the sake of Allah swt. Ask how they would feel to sacrifice their favorite toys, so they can relate.

6. Teach them the talbiya:
The talbiyah is repeatedly recited during the Hajj, or upon putting on the Ihram. Reciting the talbiya is a form of ibadah as it encompasses the concept of Tawhid or oneness of Allah swt. Teach your children the talbiya so they can recite it.

labbaik allahumma labbaik

labbaika laa shareeka laka labbaik

innal hamda wanna’mata laka wal mulka

la shareeka lak

Meaning –

Here I am O Allah, here I am

There is no partner for You, here I am

Verily all praise is for You, and every bounty is from You, and all dominion is Yours

You have no partner

7. Plan Hajj themed craft: Arts and crafts are a great learning tool for kids. Hajj and Eid al Adha themes crafts are a great way to keep children entertained and help them learn about hajj. This Hajj craft kit is amazing for kids 4-11 years old. Find ideas and inspirations in our Kid’s Hajj Activity section.

8. Join a Hajj simulation or Role play: Children love to learn while playing. Role play develops thinking, learning, and imagination. A hajj simulation is a great way to teach children about Hajj. Many masjids organizes Hajj simulations. Check with your local masjid if they are hosting one where your children can join. If you cannot find one, designate different parts of your house for different hajj rituals and teach your kids how to do the Tawaf, how to put on the Ihram, when to recite the Talbiya.

9. Watch a hajj movie: A family movie night can be a great way to introduce Hajj to your child(ren). What better way to learn about one of the important pillar of Islam while eating popcorn? Search for “hajj movies” or “Hajj documentary” and find one that’s age appropriate for your family.

We hope these tips and ideas are helpful in teaching your children about Hajj. As always, share if you have any tips in comments below.