Education specialists discuss what works best for them and their students during Ramadan
With the Islamic holy month of fasting, reflection and prayer upon us, many of the UK’s 4.1 million Muslims are currently observing Ramadan.
As 1 in 12 schoolchildren in the UK are Muslim, support from schools and teachers is vital during Ramadan, as some students balance fasting with their studies.
Explore Learning, an award-winning tuition company that works closely with schools, has spoken to staff to find out the approaches that work best during Ramadan. Rashpreet Chane, Yardley Tuition Centre Manager, explains open conversations are vital:
“The way that we support children during Ramadan is by having an open conversation with the child to see how they’re feeling and what they would need as support. This helps to establish trust and a safe environment for the child and helps everyone get excited for the special time they’re having.”
Here are five successful ways schools and education professionals help students observing Ramadan.
Giving optional alternatives at lunchtime
A successful tactic many schools adopt is offering different options for children who are fasting during lunchtime and breaks, for example, providing them with a different space to go to while others eat, with activities and space to pray.
Khudayja Makda, Explore Learning Bradford Centre Manager, explains, “Always having space for praying/worshipping is important so students don’t feel awkward or out of place when having to ask where to pray.”
A separate space for lunchtime is best if it’s optional, as many fasting Muslims have no problem being around others eating and may prefer to stick as closely to their regular routine and socialising as possible.
Making understanding a priority
Explore Learning’s Khudayja Makda, says, “As a lot of schools are moving towards inclusion even more than before, it is very important to keep in mind that students need to be educated about Ramadan, especially if they have Muslim peers studying with them.”
Ramadan is a great time to educate all children about different cultures and religious celebrations. While many Muslims welcome questions and are happy talking about the Ramadan experience, ensuring all children are informed about the occasion helps increase understanding and provide a positive, supportive experience for everyone.
Being considerate of evening meetings
Muslims break their fast just after sunset. The fast is often broken with dates and water, the Maghrib prayer, and the Iftar meal, which is usually enjoyed as a community. With sunset currently falling around 6pm, after-school parents’ evenings or extra-curricular events can clash. Many schools choose to avoid planning evening events for Ramadan, or offer flexibility with family’s time.
Being flexible with participation
By understanding that fasting can sometimes lead to tiredness or reduced energy levels, it might be helpful to offer alternative activities that don’t require as much physical exertion, like board games or creative projects.
Adapting the intensity or duration of activities and promoting teamwork can all contribute to making fasting students feel supported. Also, encouraging an environment where fasting students feel comfortable opting out of activities can create a sense of inclusivity.
Celebrating together!
Explore Learning’s Khudayja Makda explains the best approach is not to feel sorry for those observing Ramadan, which can be condescending:
“Those observing Ramadan may appear low on energy or take a little bit longer to do tasks but it’s important not to be condescending and feel sorry for them. Instead, be aware that they choose to fast as a way of thinking about those who don’t have access to necessities like food and water.”
Ramadan is a sacred time, so many schools get involved and celebrate with Muslim students. Wishing observing students “Ramadan Mubarak” throughout Ramadan, “Ramadan Kareemat” at the end of Ramadan, and “Eid Mubarak” when Eid starts is a great way to get involved.
Rashpreet Chane, Explore Learning Centre Manager, comments on adapting the learning process during Ramadan:
“It’s important to take your time to explain methods and allow the child to process the information at their own pace, allowing for any small breaks to support with engagement.
“It’s always good to have regular check-ins with the child to see how they’re doing as well as tailoring to how they learn. By creating that safe space, they will be able to tell you if they need a break or a deeper explanation of the topics they’re learning. This allows the child to learn in a safe environment that is tailored to their needs to allow them to continue to be fearless with their learning.”
To learn more about Explore Learning and how they help children achieve real progress through the joy of learning, visit https://www.explorelearning.co.uk/
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