The story of Karbala, which is one of the most important events in Islamic history, teaches us important things that we can use during the holy month of Muharram.
But how do we talk to our kids about something so deep and sad? How can we show them how powerful Imam Hussain (RA) is?
It’s very important to tell stories. Instead of sadness or conflict, kids learn the lessons of Karbala through stories that teach them to be brave, kind, honest, and helpful. It’s about planting seeds of faith and kindness in the hearts of young people.
Why It's Good to Teach Kids About Karbala
There is a lot of information about Muharram in the mosque, at home, and even online. If no one explains it to them, they might not get it or get confused. Because of this, it’s important to talk to them about Karbala in a way that makes sense to them.
It’s important to learn about the past, but it’s also important to shape people’s personalities and instil values that will last forever. From Karbala, we learn that:
- Telling the truth, even when it’s hard
- Acting bravely when things get tough
- Being nice to other people
- Being there for someone when they need you
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Let's Talk about the Values First
Don’t give too much information about battle scenes or timelines. Instead, talk about how strong Imam Hussain (RA) was. He taught us that being good is more important than having power. His faith and concern for others gave him strength. He never changed his morals and always chose to be nice.
For instance:
“Imam Hussain (RA) was a brave and kind man who did the right thing. He didn’t want to be famous or powerful; he just wanted to tell the truth. That made him a real hero.”
Even the youngest kids can learn these lessons if you present them in a way that is gentle and appropriate for their age.
Make It Understandable and Genuine
Children adore stories, particularly those featuring heroes. However, Karbala has a large number of them. Bibi Zainab (RA) tells us to be patient, Hazrat Abbas (RA) tells us to be faithful, and they all tell us to be kind even when things are hard.
Use real-life examples:
“Imam Hussain (RA) kept giving them the little water he had, even when everyone was thirsty. Think about how hard it would be to share your last bottle of water with someone who needs it more. He was that nice and giving.”
People can relate to stories that are easier to understand and remember.
A Children's Story
You can tell this simple and kind version of the story to young kids:
“A long time ago, Imam Hussain (RA) was a brave and kind man. Tell this story to young children in a gentle and straightforward manner. He was the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and always did the right thing.
He had to choose between doing what he knew was right and following someone who was wrong one day. Even though it was hard, he made the right choice.
He and his family went to Karbala. Despite his hunger and thirst, he remained strong and refused to compromise his convictions.
According to Imam Hussain (RA), being truthful, equitable, and compassionate is of utmost importance.”
Here is the full story of his bravery and the message of Karbala.
How to Teach Values Through Everyday Stories
We can explain what happened at Karbala to people using straightforward tales:
- Courage – A story about standing up for someone who was abused
- Honesty – Even if it’s difficult, being honest means owning up to your mistakes
- Kindness – Sharing a meal with someone who forgot their own is pleasant
- Generosity – Giving clothes or toys to people who need them
Connect these acts to the teachings of Imam Hussain (RA). Let the kids know that they are just as brave or kind as he is.
Activities that are Fun and Teach you Things
It’s easy to learn about Karbala. These fun and interesting tips will help you remember things better:
- Telling stories in the mosque or at home
- Making pictures of date palms, tents, or caravans and colouring them
- Letters informing Imam Hussain (RA) of their discoveries
- You can make a chart of “good deeds” for Muharram.
- Offering a small amount of Sadaqah as a family
Children can learn about Muharram and its significance during these periods.
Promoting a Giving and Faithful Attitude
Children are inherently affectionate and inquisitive. This is the perfect time to talk to them about Islam and why it’s important to do good things. Encourage small acts of kindness:
- Contribute a coin to a worthy cause
- Offer up a prayer for the sick
- Helping a friend or neighbour
- Being kind and acting morally
You can get used to doing things by doing these little things. They teach children to remember what happened in Karbala and to be good Muslims.
Bringing hope through small acts of kindness—a meal, a helping hand, or a gift can light up a child’s day.
Teaching by Doing Good Deeds and Giving to Others
We can teach our children to be kind when we discuss Karbala with them. In addition to acting morally, Imam Hussain (RA) was compassionate and considerate in his actions.
You can demonstrate to your child that remembering Karbala is not limited to retelling stories. Let them decide what to offer:
- A can of food for someone who is hungry
- Clothes they don’t wear anymore
- A toy to donate to someone in greater need than yourself
If someone asks why, you can say, “We are helping others because Imam Hussain (RA) taught us to care for people.”
The Quran says:
“And whatever you spend in charity, He will compensate ˹you˺ for it. For He is the Best Provider.” — Surah Saba [34:39]
Children learn that giving to charity brings the Karbala message to life, whether they are helping families in their own neighbourhood or in another country.
Teach Them About Palestine and More: Kindness Around the World
Karbala teaches us to do the right thing and help those in need. Teach your child that helping others isn’t limited to those in the neighbourhood. We can also help people who live far away.
People could say:
“We’re helping people in Palestine and other places where they need it, just like Imam Hussain (RA) did.”
Ask them to help you with:
- Giving money to a charity in Palestine
- Working on a project to get clean water
- Providing Zakat through reliable UK-based websites
According to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him):
“The most perfect man in his faith among the believers is the one whose behaviour is most excellent.” [Tirmidhi]
It’s crucial that you act morally. Kids learn that they can change the world when they see how their actions affect other people.
Teaching the Next Generation Vital Skills to Preserve Karbala
Karbala is not just a story from the past. It tells us to be brave, moral, and kind. Even young hearts can understand these values when we teach them with love.
During Muharram, take some time to think about and talk about important things. Read one story at a time. Connect it to a single lesson. Let them speak. Emphasise to them the importance of even a small act of kindness, such as contributing a penny to a charity.
When they discover that charitable giving is similar to what Imam Hussain (RA) did, they will carry those lessons with them for the rest of their lives.
This Muharram, tell kids stories about being brave, kind, and generous. Do little things that help you grow as a person to keep the spirit of Karbala alive.
