Understand and apply surah Al-Fatihah for the little young ones

The first chapter (surah) in Quran is al-Fatihah and is derived from the Arabic word ‘fataha’ which means, ‘to open.’ This chapter not only open the Quran itself, but the most important is, it is the door to guidance to the Straight Way that the same surah later mentions. It opens the doors of the heart so that it can receive divine guidance from its Creator. 

The moment you recite Surah Fatihah, you will realize that it is the introduction to our journey through the Quran and the introduction to

the Way of Islam. Indeed, Surah Fatihah presents an amazing introduction to faith, as well as gives an approach to a righteous life. It introduces to us the Creator with His attributes and teaches us the best words to address Him, beseech Him, invoke Him and glorify Him. It teaches what is most worthwhile to ask for from Him.

I'm interested to relate al-fatihah with the early development child as one of the basis to teach them to know Allah. Born a motherhood instinct that run naturally in every woman in this world, I believe after done some readings and made small research from friends that Surah Fatihah presents to Muslim mothers and teachers a brilliant and precise guideline to introduce children to Islam. The importance to teach Islam to our children from early age will introduce to them who Allah is and building their relationship with Him and the method is just by following the pattern of Surah Fatihah.

Just as being named the chapter of 'to open', children has to be open their mind and heart to be taught to notice, appreciate and acknowledge all the blessings and wonders their lives are full of. They should be taught not to take these blessings in their stride, but to value them. That is the first step to learn gratitude. Children must be taught that whatever we have is not the work of our hands, but the Grace and Bounty of God on us, for which we must give thanks. This will create in them humbleness, a sense of responsibility and their first recognition of God as the Benevolent Giver.

Being a teacher myself, I hope every Muslims parents and teachers will encourage our young children of to know Allah as the Giver, as He is the Caring, Loving, Nurturing, Protecting Lord ‘Rabb’ from Whom we come, and to Whom we belong that everything in the universe is encompassed by Him, sustained by Him. Indeed, it is a humbling thought and enables children to understand their link with the universe and their relationship with their Creator. Ask them to look at the sky and don't forget to tell them that there is a creator for that. Look at the colorful flowers in front of your house or the tiny ants passing through your garden and make them wonder for a while. Remember to praise Allah all the time. One small step can change big thoughts to our life. Happy parenting and happy teaching to all khalifah of Allah :)