Ways to Keep your Kids Busy in the Harmain

Maximizing Worship During Umrah with Young Children: Practical Tips and Insights

The spiritual rewards of worship at the two holy sanctuaries, the Kaaba in Makkah and Masjid-e-Nabawi in Madinah, are unparalleled. As reported in a hadith:

“One prayer in my mosque is better than one thousand prayers elsewhere, except for al-Masjid al-Haraam, and one prayer in al-Masjid al-Haraam is better than one hundred thousand prayers elsewhere.” (Ibn Majah; sound)

Traveling for Umrah with young children can feel daunting. Balancing their needs while maximizing your worship is no easy task. However, with thoughtful planning and preparation, this sacred journey can be made smooth and spiritually uplifting for the entire family.

 

Pack Nutritious Snacks

Hungry children can quickly become irritable, making it challenging to focus on your worship. Packing a variety of low-sugar, nutritious snacks can be a lifesaver. Avoid processed foods and opt for healthier options such as fruits, freshly made sandwiches, bakery items, and small emergency treats like chocolate bars. Don’t forget refillable water bottles for Zamzam and a garbage bag for cleanliness.

 

Prepare for Emergencies with Extra Supplies

Accidents happen, especially when traveling with young ones. Pack at least two extra outfits per child along with essential items such as wet wipes, tissues, hand sanitizer, and extra diapers or pull-ups. Even for potty-trained kids, these can prevent emergencies. Trash bags for soiled clothes or diapers can also be a lifesaver.

 

Ensure Comfort with Sleeping Supplies

Young children may get tired and need a nap during long hours at the mosque. Carrying a soft blanket and a small cushion can help create a makeshift sleeping area, ensuring your little one gets the rest they need without disrupting others.

 

Keep Children Engaged with Activities

Boredom can lead to restlessness, so packing engaging activities is crucial. Some great options include picture books, crayons, markers, stickers, and manipulative toys like blocks or Lego. If needed, a muted iPad with pre-downloaded educational apps can keep kids occupied. Always ensure activities are quiet and age-appropriate.

 

Involve Children in Worship

Incorporate your children into acts of worship to help them feel engaged and connected. Provide small prayer mats, dua books, and caps or scarves for your children. Encourage older kids to recite Surahs, offer voluntary prayers, or make duas. A worship checklist can foster independence and responsibility while allowing them to participate in acts of kindness, such as helping others during Tawaaf or sharing Zamzam water.

 

Embrace Patience and Intentions

While you may not be able to dedicate as much time to worship as you envisioned, remember that Allah rewards efforts and intentions. Your dedication to nurturing your children while fulfilling your spiritual obligations is a form of worship in itself. The experience of visiting these holy cities will leave a lasting impact on your children, instilling in them a deep love for Islam and its sacred rituals.

 

Plan Your Family’s Umrah with Us

At Umrah Insights, we’re dedicated to helping families create meaningful and well-prepared Umrah experiences. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you in making your journey smooth and memorable! Call now at 0203-355-0818 or email us at info@umrahinsights.com