Re: Raising Muslim kids in the West.
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I think that as a musim parent, or just by the virtue of being a parent, you lead your child by example.
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I really think this is key. Kids will learn from what they see their parents doing. You cant tell your kids to read Quran and pray, when they never see you doing that. You cant tell your kids not to smoke and then you smoke. You cant tell your kids to respect their mother/father and then they see you disrespecting them
You really have to lead by example. Be a good Muslim first and they will watch and learn. Even when you think they arent watching, they are. Make your house one where there will be the blessing of Allah. Take your children to the mosque, Sunday school etc, but do your homework first, dont take them to a boring one, or one where the teacher is some crazy who will beat the kids. Find activities for them that are Islamic, educational, fun and interesting. Always keep the trust strong between you and them, so they know they can come to you with any problem they are having. Also encourage them to do other activities so they are well-rounded individuals, like sports, volunteering etc. Spend quality time together as a family. Always know who their friends are. And always make dua for them!