Salah is the most important aspect of Islam. It is the pillar of our religion. Every parent wants their children to be punctual in their Salahs. Teaching children the value of Salah and developing the habit of praying can be challenging initially. However, it is an essential part of nurturing their faith. It is a guide for parents interested in teaching their children how to be punctual for Salah. Below are some tips and techniques that can help parents teach children about it.

BE A ROLE MODEL

Parents are the first role models for their children. They can teach their kids about different concepts through their actions. Salah is one of the fundamental concepts of Islam. The habit of praying Salah on time can be taught to the children by praying in front of them. Children do what they see. When children see their parents praying Salah punctually and wholeheartedly, they adopt the same habit. Parents should make sure to perform Salah on time in front of kids, and let them see how important it is to them. This creates a strong influence on their minds.

START EARLY 

The best way to induce the Habit of praying Salah is to start from an early age. Parents should involve children in praying Salah with them. Even though the child does not know how to pray Namaz at an early age, they will understand that praying Salah is important. When the child reaches 7, the father should take them to the mosques with them. Moreover, parents can buy a colorful mat, a cute scarf, or caps for their kids. It will encourage them to pray Salah and feel attracted to it. Gift them with small things like toys, chocolates, or their favorite snack when they perform Salahs. This is also a way of encouraging them to pray Salahs on time.

TEACH THEM THROUGH STORIES

Children love stories, and stories about the Prophets and the Sahabah can deeply inspire them. Share stories that highlight the importance of Salah. For example, tell them about the dedication of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to prayer. You can also tell them how young companions like Abdullah ibn Abbas (RA) were committed to their prayers. These stories can plant seeds of inspiration in their hearts. It will make them more inclined to follow the examples of these great figures.

BE PATIENT

The journey of developing the habit of Praying can be challenging for some parents. Some children easily get used to praying, while some kids have a tough time with their parents. It is therefore necessary that parents should be lenient with them. They should not be rude and strict with kids while teaching them about Salahs. Teaching them with strictness will make them distant from Salah. Children learn faster when they are taught with love and kindness. Thus, the parents should be patient and kind with their children. Soon the children will understand the concept of Salah and start praying it.

ANSWER THEM

Children are quite curious by nature. When we teach them anything new, several questions arise in their mind. They ask questions like why Salah is important, what is the benefit of it, and how to pray. Parents should answer their questions without getting irritated. They should not ignore them and make sure that their concept about Salah is clear.

SET A SCHEDULE AND REMINDERS

A routine is essential for punctuality. Help your children understand the timing of each prayer by setting a schedule. You can print a prayer timetable and place it somewhere visible, like on the fridge or in their room. In addition, use reminders. You can set up a call to prayer (Adhan) app on your phone or home devices that announce the prayer times. The sound of the Adhan can act as a gentle reminder. Over time, they will start associating the call with the time to pray.

PRAY TOGETHER 

Make a habit of performing Salah together as a family. This habit will foster a sense of unity and love in the minds of children. They will take it as a family activity and will enjoy praying with you and other family members. You can also encourage them by leading the Salah yourself and inviting them to stand beside you. Additionally, when the children are playing with their friends you can tell them to pray together with friends at the time of Salah. They will enjoy it also and soon they will be used to praying Salah even when it’s their play time.

MAKE DUA FOR CHILDREN

Last but not least don’t forget to make dua for your children. Ask Allah to help you in developing this habit in kids. Ask for his guidance and strength. Pray to Allah to guide them, protect them from distractions, and make them love Salah. Keep faith in Allah’s guidance and trust in your efforts.

CONCLUSION

Parents play the biggest role in teaching their kids and that is why they should be their inspiration in praying Salahs. With consistent efforts and a positive attitude, the children will develop the habit of being punctual at Salah. Always remember that every small step counts. With the effort of parents, the children will become better Muslims in the future.