Guest Author: Noha Alshugairi, co-author of Positive Parenting in the Muslim Home

As the crescent moon shines above, I wish you an Eid filled with
love, joy, and togetherness. Eid Mubarak!

Eid holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims around the world, bringing together family, community, and cherished traditions. As I reminisce about my earliest memories of Eid, I can't help but recall the joyous visits to my grandparents' home in Cairo, Egypt. For my sister and me, Eid was synonymous with what we affectionately termed "The Money Eid." Throughout the day, relatives would drop by, generously gifting us crisp new bills in various denominations, marking the occasion with celebration, generosity, and for us children a lot of fun!

Muslims observe two Eids, marking significant moments in the Islamic calendar: one following the month of Ramadan, a time of fasting and spiritual reflection, and the other two months later during Dhul Hijjah, the month of the pilgrimage to Makkah. While Eid rituals may vary from family to family and from one cultural heritage to another, the underlying essence remains consistent—an expression of joy and gratitude shared within the community.

Eid morning typically commences with a communal prayer, attended by individuals of all ages, followed by a day filled with diverse activities and outings. It's a day eagerly anticipated by both adults and children alike, brimming with anticipation and excitement.

Here are six quick tips to ease Eid for parents:

Plan ahead: Many Muslims celebrate by buying new outfits for everyone in the family. From shopping for new outfits to organizing family gatherings, planning ahead ensures a smoother and more enjoyable celebration.
Make it communal: Embrace the spirit of togetherness by involving family members in special Eid preparations, such as cooking traditional dishes or baking treats together. Many families have a special dish they make before or on Eid day. As a young girl, my sister and I gathered with our cousins in my grandmother’s house to shape Eid cookies and then carried the filled baking sheets to the neighbourhood bakery so they could be baked.
Share plans: Let your children know ahead of time how the day will go. To make it to the morning prayer, be especially clear about wake-up and departure times, fostering cooperation and understanding.
Make it special: Infuse the day with personalized touches that create lasting memories, whether it's singing a special prayer song or waking children with hugs and kisses to an Eid melody. My daughter fondly remembers Eid by the special prayer song we sing on our way to the communal prayer. My son and his wife wake up their children to an Eid song-- playing on their phones-- while hugging and kissing them.
Keep it simple: While gifts and monetary gestures are common, prioritize meaningful connections over material indulgence, encouraging children to appreciate the spiritual essence of Eid.
Embrace gratitude: Above all, Eid is a day of communal gratitude and reflection. Encourage children to cultivate a sense of appreciation for their blessings and the joy of connecting with others.

As we come together to celebrate Eid, let us embrace the values of family, community, and tradition, embodying the true spirit of this joyous occasion. Eid Mubarak—may your Eid be blessed with love, laughter, and cherished moments shared with loved ones.