Shawwal
After the joy and celebration of Eid, the Islamic month of Shawwal begins. For young Muslim children, Shawwal is a beautiful opportunity to learn that worship, gratitude, and good character continue even after Ramadan ends.
As adults, we know that this is a blessed month filled with reward. For preschoolers, this learning begins gently — through simple conversations, positive examples, and activities.
What is Hijri Calendar?
The Hijri calendar, also called the Islamic calendar, is a special calendar used by Muslims around the world. It is based on the moon, not the sun. This means each month begins when the new moon is sighted. Because it follows the moon cycle, the Hijri year is about 10–11 days shorter than the regular Gregorian calendar year.
The Hijri calendar began in the year 622 CE. This was the year when Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) migrated from Makkah to Madinah. This important journey is called the Hijrah, and it marks the start of the Islamic calendar.
There are 12 months in the Hijri calendar. Some of these months are very special, such as Ramadan, the month of fasting, and Dhul Hijjah, the month of Hajj and Eid al-Adha. Because the Hijri calendar is shorter, Islamic months move through different seasons over time. For example, Ramadan can fall in summer one year and winter years later.
Muslims use the Hijri calendar to plan religious events, celebrations, and important days. It helps them stay connected to their faith and traditions throughout the year.
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What Is Shawwal?
It is the month that comes after Ramadan and begins with Eid al-Fitr. It reminds us that the habits we built in Ramadan — kindness, prayer, patience, and helping others — are meant to continue throughout the year.
For children, Shawwal can be explained as:
- A month Allah loves
- A time to keep doing good deeds
- A reminder to thank Allah for Ramadan
Book Recommendation
The Blessings
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged believers to continue acts of worship after Ramadan. One authentic hadith teaches us the great reward of fasting in Shawwal:
“Whoever fasts the month of Ramadan and then follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if he fasted for a lifetime.”
(Sahih Muslim)
While preschool children are not expected to fast, this hadith helps us explain an important lesson:
Allah rewards consistency and effort, even in small actions.
Simple Way of Teaching
Young children learn best through repetition, visuals, and positive experiences. When teaching, focus on meaning rather than rules.
You can tell children:
- “It is a month Allah loves”
- “We keep being kind after Ramadan”
- “Good deeds still count after Eid”
Examples of good deeds for children:
- Saying kind words
- Sharing toys
- Helping at home
- Making duʿāʾ
- Smiling and showing good manners
Learning Through Art: Colouring Activity
Art is a powerful way for children to connect with Islamic concepts. Colouring allows children to:
- Slow down and focus
- Ask questions naturally
- Build positive feelings around Islamic months
To support this learning, I’ve created a free Shawwal colouring page for preschoolers. It’s designed to gently introduce this month while encouraging creativity and conversation.
Free Shawwal Colouring Page for Preschoolers
This printable is perfect for:
- Home learning
- Islamic playgroups
- Classroom use
- Post-Eid reflection activities
Download the free Shawwal colouring page below and help your child connect with this blessed month.
Check out more Islamic Content and Free Printables
Check out our other Ramadan, Eid, and Islamic posts designed especially for preschool children. You’ll find helpful insights from a preschool teacher, along with engaging activities to support early learning. Explore a variety of free and paid printables, crafts, and resources to make learning meaningful, fun, and culturally enriching for your little ones.
REMINDER: When children associate Islam with warmth, creativity, and love, those lessons stay with them. Simple words, meaningful actions, and shared moments.
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