Tomorrow marks the start of our 8th annual 30 day Ramadan crafts challenge.

 

Ramadan is a holy month in the Islamic calendar when able Muslims around the world fast between sunrise to sunset. No food, no water, nothing can enter their body. In the most simplest of explanations for children to understand: it is to make them appreciate what they have and to donate to the less fortunate at the end of the month.

 

For our annual #CraftyRamadan challenge, we will once again be sharing 30 activities, tutorials and downloads that teach about Ramadan, Muslims, the Arab world, and the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region.

 

From the beginning, my 3 daughters and I have spent the holy month of Ramadan creating projects to talk about their connection to the 1.75 billion Muslims around the world.   I wanted to show them they were part of a larger Ummah, a word meaning community in Arabic,  أمة‎. Some posts may not teach anything but offer a fun toy or game to help children pass the time.

 

Our annual tradition started in 2011, and continued in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017.

 

As an teaching artist, I had the resources to teach them art in my studio, a subject they were heavily missing in their school system.  As a Muslim, I wanted to make sure they were always reading and learning, as asked of us in the Quran, or holy book. As an Arab mother, I wanted to spend time with them individually talking about my childhood memories of spending Ramadan with family, growing up in Libya.

 

This year, I am adding a Plaid Online contest for a chance to win $50 worth of Mod Podge accessories, as part of my role as Plaid Ambassador.  Please stop by A Crafty Arab on Facebook to enter to win:

–8 OZ. Mod Podge GLOSS
–8 OZ. Mod Podge Matte
–8 Oz. Dishwasher Safe Gloss
–Mod Podge Photo Transfer Medium 2 Oz. Carded
–Mod Podge Silicone Craft Mat
–Mod Podge 7 Piece Tool Kit
–Mod Podge 4pc Sponcer Set
–Mod Podge 4pc Foam Brush Set

 

May the spirit of Ramadan brighten your world and show you the way to harmony, joy and peace, In’shallah (God willing in Arabic).

 

 

Stop by A Crafty Arab on Pinterst to see more of our fun crafts DIY tutorials.