Muslim Mom Discusses Parenting during Ramadan

At the moment, millions of Muslims around the world are fasting as part of Ramadan. Lasting for 30 days, Ramadan involves Muslims not eating anything during daylight hours. It is a hugely challenging time for those who partake, but it is done to strengthen their bond with God. 

Writing for Yahoo, a mother who is fasting has opened up about her experiences of parenting during the 30 days of fasting. This year, Tasmiha says that she is looking forward to Radaman more than ever, as it will provide her with an opportunity to “reset.” 

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“As a mom, I sometimes wonder if I am being too tough. Am I spending enough time parenting? Am I doing enough activities? Am I being a good mom? These questions constantly bubble up, and I’m often left to think that I surely could do more.

This is why I looked forward to Ramadan. For Muslims like myself, it’s a time to reset. While much of the world is setting goals and resolutions on January 1st,  for me, that is Ramadan – and time I’m using to focus on entering a new dimension as a mother.”

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An Opportunity to Remodel her Parenting Style

While outsiders view Ramadan as a time when Muslims are forbidden from eating and drinking during certain hours, Tasmiha is keen to stress that it is a lot more than that. For her, it’s an opportunity to remodel herself as a mom and set new challenges:

“This Ramadan, one of my goals is to try my best to not lose my temper or raise my voice at my kids. When you have a threenager with endless questions and no regard for their surroundings, it can be a tall order to maintain patience. Snapping at your kiddo is easier to do than maintaining a calm composure. 

I want to mother in a kind and compassionate way so that my boys will be willing to readily give to those in need in any capacity they have. You have to give a little of yourself to purify what you already have. To do this, I will make sure my sons have opportunities to donate both in a physical and spiritual sense.”

Looking After Children with Low Energy 

Going without any food and/or drink for around 15 consecutive hours every day for 30 days can be completely draining. For mothers with young children, this issue is only amplified. Speaking about how she combats this, Tasmiha told Yahoo:

“Energy is limited for all, but tending to little children can be exhausting. To remedy this, I make sure to have activities prepped so that we can drive right in. I will also engage in physical activities, such as jumping and skipping at home, moderately. 

The night prayers at the mosque usually fall during bedtime for kids, which means moms often miss out on these gatherings. Instead of feeling upset about this, I will change my perspective to view it as an opportunity to get more done at home when all is silent. 

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This also means I can hold prayers with my kids at home in a fun way, like using different prayer mats and even building forts with bedsheets and pillows, so it’s an adventure for them.”

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