Kids should learn to say "Bismillah" (بسم الله) at various times throughout the day, primarily to instill a habit of remembering Allah in all activities.
Key Times to Teach Children to Say Bismillah:
- Upon Waking Up: The first thing children should learn to say when they wake up in the morning is Bismillah. This starts their day with blessings and teaches them to remember Allah first thing.
- Before Washing Hands: It is essential for kids to learn to say Bismillah before washing their hands.
- Before Eating: Teach children to say Bismillah before starting a meal. If they forget at the beginning, they can say "Bismillahi awwalahu wa aakhirahu" (In the name of Allah, at the beginning and the end).
- Before Drinking: Similar to eating, children should say Bismillah before taking a sip of any drink.
- Before Entering the Bathroom: Teach them to say the appropriate dua, which includes Bismillah, before entering the bathroom.
- Before Starting Any Task: Encourage them to say Bismillah before starting any task, big or small, such as beginning homework, starting a game, or opening a book.
- Before Sleeping: Teach them to say Bismillah before going to sleep.
- When Mounting a Vehicle: Bismillah should be said before getting into a car or any other form of transportation.
Benefits of Teaching Children to Say Bismillah:
- Blessings: Saying Bismillah brings blessings (Barakah) in all activities.
- Protection: It is believed that saying Bismillah provides protection from evil.
- Remembrance of Allah: It helps children remember Allah in their daily lives and develop a connection with Him.
- Good Habits: It instills good habits and Islamic manners from a young age.
By consistently encouraging children to say Bismillah in these situations, you help them develop a lifelong habit of remembering Allah in all aspects of their lives.
