DUBAI // A language centre will teach children this Ramadan about historical figures, famous Arab scientists and traditions linked to the holy month.
Iqra’a Arabic Language Centre seeks to spread knowledge and awareness about the region’s cultural heritage.
“We will read stories with the children and focus on famous people in Islam, talk about how they practised Islam, about their morals, their achievements, and how they treated their family and elders with respect,” said Yusra Al Hashimi, the centre’s founder.
“We want children to learn and be inspired to behave in the same way with the elderly, their family and the poor in society.”
The Arabic classes will explain the contribution of historical figures such as Bilal ibn Rabah, Prophet Mohammed’s companion, and Tariq bin Ziyad, a brave military commander.
The curriculum will cover the work of scholars such as Mohammed Al Khwarizmi, a mathematician and astronomer, and Abbas ibn Firnas, a chemist and engineer who produced early designs of parachutes and hang gliders.
The centre will also discuss the importance of charity and prayer.
“Reading the Quran is most important and we will speak to the children so they understand this,” said Ms Al Hashimi.
“It’s not just about fasting but about making your senses fast by not saying bad words or thinking bad thoughts, and feeling for others who do not have food. The more you control yourself and your temper, the higher the rewards.”
Teachers will also address children’s common queries about prayers. “Children are very curious and want to learn about why people pray at a specific time,” said Ms Al Hashimi.
“When they first start fasting, they want to know whether they can fast until lunch and then eat food.”
The children will also do craftwork such as making lanterns and crescent moons for Ramadan.
Parents say the curriculum will help to broaden their children’s minds and knowledge.
“Life has so many distractions that sometimes we forget the essence of traditions,” said Ghalia Abbas, an Emirati photographer and graphic designer.
“Ramadan is a time to revive the tradition of talking to children and explaining things.
“It’s a quieter time so, along with spending time with family, kids can attend Islamic lectures and through Ramadan activities gain an understanding and pride in their identity.”
Their new Ramadan knowledge will be woven into Arabic-language classes that the centre conducts.
Joanna Santillan, founder of Afterschool.ae, a web and mobile application, said she is already fielding enquires from working parents looking for activities for children home from school early due to Ramadan.
Camps offered by the service cover crafts, language, sports and lego building and the company first checks if the providers have the relevant education regulator permits before allowing them to be placed on the app.
“Arabic lessons and Ramadan camps like Iqra’a are popular because many local and Arab children go to international schools where the medium of instruction is English. So they don’t speak Arabic fluently and this is a good way to improve spoken Arabic and learn about their history,” Ms Santillan said.
“Parents also want the customs of Ramadan to be explained and not just the fasting aspect.”
For more information on the centre's Ramadan classes, visit iqraalc.com.
rtalwar@thenational.ae
