Durood Sharif holds immense significance in a Muslim’s life and is important to teach children to foster their love for the Prophet (ﷺ) and to help them develop the habit of remembering Allah SWT. Parents can adopt creative and engaging methods to make this learning process enjoyable and meaningful. Listed below are some simple and effective tips on how to teach Durood Sharif to children with the help of Islamic references.
1. Start With Explaining The Importance of Durood Sharif
Children are naturally curious, and explaining the significance of Durood Sharif helps them understand why it is essential to recite it. Parents can also share benefits, as mentioned in the Hadith below:
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:
Whoever sends salah upon me once, Allah (SWT) will send salah upon him tenfold, and will erase ten sins from him, and will raise him ten degrees in status. – Sunan an-Nasa’i 1297 (Sahih)
Parents can explain to their kids that reciting Durood Sharif is a way of showing love for the Prophet and gaining immense rewards from Allah SWT. Use examples of Seerah that can be used to explain how sending blessings upon the Prophet (ﷺ) is a source of barakah in one’s life.
2. Use Short & Simple Version For Beginners
Start with an easy-to-memorize version of Durood Sharif, such as:
Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammadin wa ‘ala aali Muhammadin
Translation: O Allah, send blessings upon Muhammad and the family of Muhammad.
It is easier for young children to recite and memorize the shorter version before moving on to the longer version, i.e. Durood Ibrahim.
Related: Meaning of Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam in English
3. Turn Learning Into a Game
It is always easier and more effective for kids to learn when they are entertained. Transform the memorization process into a game to make the children enjoy the activity. Try the below ideas and see if it’s working:
Durood Puzzle: Write each word of Durood Sharif on separate pieces of paper or cards. Ask the children to arrange them in the correct order.
Durood Competition: Make the children compete with each other to complete the Durood Sharif, and see who can do it the fastest. Award the children with some small gifts or chocolates to encourage them.
4. Related Durood Sharif to Their Daily Lives
Application of Durood Sharif in Children’s Lives makes it easier for the children to understand the importance of Durood Sharif and also helps them to develop the habit of reciting it at every moment. This practice enhances the affection towards the Prophet Muhammad (saw) and also helps the children to develop a closer relationship with Allah. Here are some simple and practical suggestions that can help children implement Durood Sharif in their daily activities:
Teach children to recite Durood Sharif in different situations, such as:
- When hearing the Prophet’s name
- Before starting a new task
- To seek help from Allah SWT during times of difficulty
Connecting Durood Sharif to real-life scenarios makes it more meaningful for children.
5. Schedule Family Recitation Time
Set a specific time for the family to recite Durood Sharif together. For example, children can be taught to recite Durood Sharif after Salah, while traveling together (or when children are alone), integrating Durood Sharif into play & creativity, while listening to the stories of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
Teach children that one should not neglect to send Salat upon our beloved Prophet (ﷺ).
The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said:
The stingy person is the one before whom I am mentioned, and he does not send Salat upon me – Jami` at-Tirmidhi 3546
Conclusion
Teaching Durood Sharif to children is not only about helping them to memorize but also about helping them develop their love for the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the foundation of spirituality. Parents can ensure that the process of learning is effective when using interesting and engaging approaches. This way, they will learn quickly and get habituated to reciting Durood Sharif regularly.
May Allah help us to bring up children who have love and respect for the Prophet (ﷺ).