By Ibne Tamim
Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, will take place from April 1 to April 30 in 2022. Ramadan is a month in the Islamic calendar during which Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. And it may be a challenging month for many, particularly children who must go through a whole school day without eating or drinking. Muslims typically fast to gain a spiritual perspective that helps them to comprehend the pain of others who are less fortunate, poor, or in need. It also serves as a reminder to not waste God’s benefits. Here are a few tips and ways to support Muslim students during Ramadan.
- Be understanding: Educating oneself about Ramadan is one of the most important aspects of establishing a safe atmosphere for Muslim students during the month. Many of my instructors and students are perplexed as to why Muslims fast. It’s critical to attempt to create your own opinion on the month rather than relying on Muslim pupils to do it.
Additionally, students should not be forced to come out. Muslim students frequently refuse to discuss their faith with their peers and professors, or they try to hide visible signs of their devotion. (Think of women who refuse to wear headscarves despite believing that they are vital.) As a result, it’s best not to inquire if anybody is fasting throughout Ramadan. Instead, expect you’ll have Muslim pupils and plan your teaching appropriately.- Give them space: Fasting during lunchtime is definitely one of the hardest times to get through. Many students may claim that they don’t mind if you eat in front of them, and this is probably accurate. When you’re in a room full of people eating, though, hunger tends to intensify. It could be beneficial to have a comfortable location for Muslim students to go to during lunchtime instead of the designated lunchroom. iPads, books, periodicals, and other items might be placed in the room to keep pupils occupied. Of course, the student has the option of going there or not, but having that option is typically useful, even for students who are not fasting.
- Physical Education Issue: Some educators are intolerant of Muslim students who are fasting during Ramadan, and as a result, they are irritated when students are unable to engage in physical education lessons. Due to their lack of involvement throughout Ramadan, some students have had their marks docked. This is not acceptable. Students have the freedom to practice their faith while also having access to the resources they need to flourish and reach their full potential. Teachers can make allowances for practicing students by giving a substitute task/project that does not require them to do any rigorous work while fasting.
- Offer time and space for prayer: Muslims feel that their spiritual activities are more significant and increased during Ramadan. Muslims who do not pray frequently will likely do so during this period, and those who do pray regularly may pray even more. It is essential for Muslims to have a suitable place to pray. Almost any location will suffice, but your pupils must be able to concentrate and shift their gaze toward Mecca. It’s also a good idea to provide some privacy, especially if you have pupils who don’t want to share their beliefs. Offering kids mindfulness time, during which they might pray, meditate, or take a short mental break from what they’re doing, is one method to create this sort of space.
- Empathy: This may appear to be a simple concept, yet it necessitates a thorough understanding of the other person’s position and feelings. Consider how school activities and events may affect practicing Muslim students while organizing them. Will they feel excluded? Will they be required to break their fast at that time if it falls during Iftar (sunset)?
It’s possible to transform a difficult month into one of the most gratifying if students are granted the necessary adjustments and support from instructors and classmates. Keep an eye out for students that don’t appear to fit in with the rest of the class. Lend a helping hand in whatever manner you can.
Sources:
Supporting Muslim Students – Islamic Resource Group (irgmn.org)
Column: How teachers can support students during Ramadan | PBS NewsHour
9 Ways to Support Students During Ramadan – We Are Teachers