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Raising compassionate citizens of tomorrow

Bismillah Babies spreads the importance of Ramadan among youth in a fun and engaging way

Bringing the spirit of Islam closer to young ones, Dubai-based social group Bismillah Babies recently introduced two exciting activity books for Ramadan centred on unity in diversity to take them on a journey of discovery.
"Living in a multicultural society, we often find ourselves wondering about the cultural and traditional practices of those around us. Children, in particular, are very curious. With Ramadan being observed in a grand way all over the UAE, questions such as 'What is Ramadan?' are sure to arise," says Dr Tayyaba Anwar, Co-founder of Bismillah Babies.
My Ramadan Journal - Around the World is a diary that features characters from 15 different countries and their Ramadan traditions. The Journal, directed at children aged six to 12 years, shares crafts, recipes and fun facts. It also covers various Hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammed - [PBUH]) and supplications.
The second book, What is Ramadan - An Activity Book, is aimed at a multicultural audience. It features characters from 10 different countries that share their meaning of Ramadan and how they observe it.
An ideal way to keep children occupied and well-versed during the Holy Month, each edition is set to convey the message that shared values of family, kindness, generosity and friendship far outweigh the differences in language, traditions and geography. Both books have received a positive response from the community, according to Dr Anwar.
Since 2012, Bismillah Babies has armed itself with a mission to inculcate core Islamic values in children in an engaging and fun way. "The concept began with a small informal group and grew organically with the support and help of the local community in Dubai," says Dr Anwar, who leads the team with Sadia Anwar and Mehnaz Ilyas.
The ladies come from diverse backgrounds. Sadia, an Architect and Lighting Designer with an MBA; Mehnaz, a Chartered Accountant, and Tayyaba, a Paediatrician. All share the same goal of building a strong and vibrant community of like-minded people.
"We conduct learn-through-play sessions centred on key Islamic topics. Each session consists of a story, sing-along and theme-based craft, all of which are enjoyed by the children. We also organise casual family events such as picnics and lunches. The Bismillah Babies' mums have found great support and friendship within the group," says Dr Anwar.
Bismillah Babies wishes everyone a Ramadan full of peace, prosperity and lots of happiness.