Raising Mums

A good education for our children is every parent’s concern and priority. We have been schooled to think of "success" as synonymous with, or at least dependent upon, "schooling". However, as Muslim parents homeschooling in the UK, have we've lost sight and understanding of what a good education truly means? In Episode 75 of the Raising Mums podcast, I talk about how we can instill good character in our children. Key Points: The Quran and Prophet ﷺ spoke extensively about the importance of good character. Although individual teachers may try, the school system school has other priorities over developing noble character traits. Children lead double lives, not just externally, but internally also. When we homeschool, we can priority character, without sacrificing their academic performance. The key to the immediate success of our children in this world, and their ultimate success in the next is our parental responsibility to ensure we nurture balanced, honest human beings who live lives based on principle and who exemplify good character in their dealings with other people. Hadith about Good Character The Prophet ﷺ once declared, “I have been sent to perfect noble character.” (Sunan Al-Bayhaqee: 21301)  The Prophet ﷺ said, “Righteousness (birr) is good character.” (Sahih Muslim: 2553) The servant does not attain the reality of faith until he loves for people what he loves for himself of goodness. (Ṣaḥīḥ Ibn Ḥibbān 235, Grade: Sahih) No human being will enter Paradise if there is as much as the weight of a seed of arrogance in his heart. (Musnad Aḥmad 7015, Grade: Sahih) Related: Get your FREE COPY of our Homeschooling eBOOK for Muslim Parents! https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/ebook Related: Picture Books To Encourage GOOD CHARACTER In Muslim Children https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2015/07/picture-books-to-encourage-good.html Related: What makes a Book Un-Islamic? Choosing Books for Muslim Kids https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2022/04/what-makes-a-book-un-islamic-choosing-books-for-muslim-kids.html How to Start Homeschooling UK Launch Your Homeschool is an online course that will hold your hand and walk you through the beginning stages of homeschooling, built upon the framework of the Charlotte Mason philosophy. I teach you how to craft a curriculum for your homeschool, how to choose the right resources and plan out your year to create a homeschool experience that aligns with the values and beliefs of your family. Whether you are homeschooling in the UK, or elsewhere in the world, this programme will help you give your children an incredible education at home.  I show you the essential teaching techniques that you’ll need to know to get started. There’s even an entire module on how to manage your time so you can still cook, keep the house tidy and take care of yourself, all whilst homeschooling your children! Interested? Launch Your Homeschool enrolment is currently closed. Doors open Summer 2022, insha’Allah.  JOIN THE WAITING LIST Here: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses Peace and love,

Our religion values reading since the first verse revealed to our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was “read” from surah Al-Alaq. Reading is an important part of a homeschooling life and the primary means of gaining knowledge. Children are like sponges and absorb everything they are exposed to. Everything they read will read influences their heart, their way of thinking, and beliefs. This is why it’s crucial for parents to make sure that the children read only good and worthy books. In Episode 74 of the Raising Mums podcast, Ustadha Mehded Maryam Sinclair shares her insight and wisdom in picking books for the Muslim child. This audio recording was a response to a question asked after her masterclass with the mums of Launch Your Homeschool. Mehded Maryam Sinclair is an American writer, teacher, performing artist and student living in Istanbul where she studies, researches, and teaches the lives of the prophets known in the Qur'an to families all over the globe. She helps to inspire Muslim families to love their religion by telling them vivid stories that nourish their hearts. She is the author of two award-winning books, When Wings Expand and Miraculous Happenings in the Year of the Elephant, and A Trust of Treasures, as well as five audiobooks, A Mercy to the Worlds, The Bowing of the Stars, The Fall of the Tyrant, Take Heed, and Scents of Paradise. She has narrated classical Qur'anic stories to thousands of live listeners in the US, the UK, Turkey, Jordan, Pakistan, Australia, and New Zealand. VISIT HER WEBSITE: https://www.stories-of-light.com To find the right books for Muslim kids consider... Imaginary reality and Physical reality. In the past, stories reason for existing was in line with survival of a community. Stories become problematic when boundaries between reality and fantasy are erased or no distinction between good and evil. One should also avoid books promoting disunity of the family, shirk, or that are solely focussed on magic. I have also put together a list of the best kids’ books for Muslim children ages 0-5 years old. GET YOUR BOOKLIST HERE: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/booklist Related: 18 Books that Every Muslim Child Needs! Here: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/booklist Related: 7 Delightful Children’s Books about Eid HERE: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2017/06/7-delightful-childrens-books-eid.html How to Start Your Muslim Homeschool Launch Your Homeschool is an online course that will hold your hand and walk you through the beginning stages of homeschooling, built upon the framework of the Charlotte Mason philosophy. I teach you how to choose the right subjects for your homeschool, how to choose the right resources and plan out your year to create a homeschool experience that aligns with the values and beliefs of your family. Whether you are homeschooling in the UK, or elsewhere in the world, this programme will help you give your children an incredible education at home.  I show you the essential teaching techniques that you’ll need to know to get started. There’s even an entire module on how to manage your time so you can still cook, keep the house tidy and take care of yourself, all whilst homeschooling your children! Interested? Launch Your Homeschool enrolment is currently closed. Doors open Summer 2022, insha’Allah.  JOIN THE WAITING LIST  Here: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses Peace and love,

Teaching your children about your religion and culture is a significant part of parenting. Ramadan with your kids and other celebrations that you have at home as well as the numerous experiences that you share with your child will assist them with understanding the values that you attempt to instill in them. SubhanAllah, we are now nearing the end of Ramadan, but there is still time to do things which involve the whole family and by doing so ensuring that memories are made, family traditions are started, lessons are taught, and faith is sewn. In Episode 73 of the Raising Mums podcast, I share ways to you can still benefit from Ramadan as a family. Key Points: If you haven't already, explain the significance of Ramadan! It is obligatory and one of the five pillars. But we also seek to attain Allah’s pleasure and to perfect our following of the Messenger of Allah ﷺ so that we attain his companionship. We hope to increase in understanding the Qur’an and act according to it. By avoiding both outward and inward acts that nullify our fasts, we improve our character and cleanse our heart. That Allah will accept our fast and forgive us through it. Pray together! "A family who prays together stays together, and if they stay together they will love one another as God has loved each one of them." - Mother Teresa. Encourage Kids to Give - Charity, cooking for neighbours, sharing toys, preparing Eid gifts for the community. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is reported to have said , “A kind word is charity.” Set goals for the rest of the year, until next Ramadan. Reflect upon their experience and consider what they would like to change or continue will going forward. Get Instant Access to our HUGE LIBRARY of Educational Resources to use with your children. JOIN TODAY! https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/library Related: 5 Easy Ramadan Activities for Children  HERE: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2018/05/easy-ramadan-activities-children.html Related: Make the Most of Ramadan with your Kids HERE:https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2022/03/ramadan-with-kids How to Start Your Muslim Homeschool Launch Your Homeschool is an online course that will hold your hand and walk you through the beginning stages of homeschooling, built upon the framework of the Charlotte Mason philosophy. I teach you how to choose the right subjects for your homeschool, how to choose the right resources and plan out your year to create a homeschool experience that aligns with the values and beliefs of your family. Whether you are homeschooling in the UK, or elsewhere in the world, this programme will help you give your children an incredible education at home.  I show you the essential teaching techniques that you’ll need to know to get started. There’s even an entire module on how to manage your time so you can still cook, keep the house tidy and take care of yourself, all whilst homeschooling your children! Interested? Launch Your Homeschool enrolment is currently closed. Doors open Summer 2022, insha’Allah.  JOIN THE WAITING LIST  Here: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses Peace and love,

We start the homeschool year enthusiastically but sadly, the passion to teach our children sometimes begins to fade. Even adults can get bored if they’re doing the same old routine every day. We may start to chose a half-hearted approach as the daily demands of caring for a household and the intense effort required as a homeschooler can drain even the most dedicated parent. In Episode 72 of the Raising Mums podcast, I share that it is ok not to always be passionate about homeschooling! If you don't feel passionate about homeschooling, it's ok! That's not a sign that you shouldn't home educate your children. Long-lasting passion comes after putting in the work; after gaining experience and learning new skills. Don't expect it at the beginning.  Resources for Homeschoolers Mentioned: Get Instant Access to our HUGE LIBRARY of Educational Resources to use with your children. JOIN TODAY! https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/library Wok with Naila: https://www.instagram.com/wokwithnaila/ Nadia Hussain's Cookbook: https://amzn.to/3jFBqUv (affiliate) So Good They Can't Ignore You by Cal Newport https://amzn.to/3jq6De3 (affiliate) Related:  What is Better than a Happy Homeschool  https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2022/04/better-than-happy-homeschool-homeschooling-podcast.html Related: How to Homeschool with a 2-year-old  https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2022/02/homeschooling-2-year-old.html How to Start Your Muslim Homeschool Launch Your Homeschool is an online course that will hold your hand and walk you through the beginning stages of homeschooling, built upon the framework of the Charlotte Mason philosophy. I teach you how to choose the right subjects for your homeschool, how to choose the right resources and plan out your year to create a homeschool experience that aligns with the values and beliefs of your family. Whether you are homeschooling in the UK, or elsewhere in the world, this programme will help you give your children an incredible education at home.  I show you the essential teaching techniques that you’ll need to know to get started. There’s even an entire module on how to manage your time so you can still cook, keep the house tidy and take care of yourself, all whilst homeschooling your children! Interested? Launch Your Homeschool enrolment is currently closed. Doors open Summer 2022, insha’Allah.  JOIN THE WAITING LIST Here: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses Peace and love,

When making homeschooling decisions sometimes we put too much weight on happiness and what makes our children happy and making sure they always do what they enjoy. Yes, children are an amanah (trust) from Allah SWT and we have certain duties and responsibilities towards them. We must guide them with kindness and mercy, but we also need to equip and prepare our children for the dunya and the akhirah. In this homeschooling podcast I consider that sometimes, homeschooling may involve curriculum, activities, or reading books our children may find hard or don't enjoy. These might not necessarily make them happy but they will benefit them by helping develop their characters and being ultimately being good for their life to come, InshAllah. In Episode 71 of the Raising Mums podcast, I share how we can homeschool for the ultimate happiness, InshAllah. Key Points from this Homeschooling Podcast Episode Happiness is not the only goal for your children and your homeschool.Also consider what is good for them, in this world and the next? When you make a decision, consider what is good for them, not just what makes them happy.It's ok to choose a homeschool curriculum or activity that they do not enjoy. Allah, the Almighty says, “And it may be that you dislike a thing which is good for you and that you like a thing which is bad for you. Allah knows but you do not know.” (AI-Baqarah, 2:216) JOIN OUR LIBRARY of Free Resources for Muslim Kids! https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/library GET YOUR BOOKLIST HERE! The 18 Best Books for Muslim Children 0-5 https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/booklist Related: How to Homeschool Successfully | Ten Tips from the Heart https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2021/07/how-to-homeschool-successfully-ten-tips-from-the-heart.html How to Start Homeschooling Launch Your Homeschool is an online course that will hold your hand and walk you through the beginning stages of homeschooling, built upon the framework of the Charlotte Mason philosophy. I teach you how to craft a curriculum for your homeschool, how to choose the right resources and plan out your year. Create a homeschool experience that aligns with the values and beliefs! Whether you are homeschooling in the UK, or anywhere else in the world, this programme will help you to give your children an incredible education at home!  I show you the essential teaching techniques that you’ll need to know to get started. There’s even an entire module on how to manage your time so you can still cook, keep the house tidy and take care of yourself, all whilst homeschooling your children! Interested? Launch Your Homeschool enrolment is currently closed. Doors open Summer 2022, insha’Allah.  JOIN THE WAITING LIST HERE: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses Peace and love,

Too often we spend our days drowning in homeschool comparison and looking for that next surefire thing that will magically bring us up to some self-imposed standard. Living in a social media-driven world makes this worse, it is the source of so much of our discontent. We now can compare and judge ourselves 24/7 with other in homeschools UK but also around the world. When we compare ourselves to what others are doing, have, or simply how they are, we are essentially making ourselves feel downright inadequate and deflated – with low self-esteem to match. Listen to my advice on not letting comparison rob us of the joy of homeschooling and learn to appreciate ourselves and our differences. In Episode 70 of the Raising Mums podcast, I discuss the reason why you're not happy homeschooling and what you can do to overcome these feelings. The key points to take away are:- Comparison robs you of clarity and gratitude. It makes you heedless of Allah. When you make a decision for a state of heedlessness, you will inevitably regret that decision.You lose compassion for others, and may even lose friends. Comparison sometimes disguises itself as looking for inspiration. Always question your intention for looking at the lives of others. Stay in your lane. Stop looking at what everyone else is doing. Use that energy to improve what you are doing with your children. Focus on your own children and what you can do to support them on this learning journey.  Get Hundreds of FREE Resources for Muslim Kids! JOIN OUR FREE RESOURCES LIBRARY HERE: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/library How to BREAK your Homeschool: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2022/03/homeschool-podcast.html Stop Homeschool Confusion: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2022/03/muslim-homeschool-decision.html How to Start Homeschooling UK Launch Your Homeschool is an online course that will hold your hand and walk you through the beginning stages of homeschooling, built upon the framework of the Charlotte Mason philosophy. I teach you how to craft a curriculum for your homeschool, how to choose the right resources and plan out your year to create a homeschool experience that aligns with the values and beliefs of your family. Whether you are homeschooling in the UK, or elsewhere in the world, this programme will help you give your children an incredible education at home.  I show you the essential teaching techniques that you’ll need to know to get started. There’s even an entire module on how to manage your time so you can still cook, keep the house tidy and take care of yourself, all whilst homeschooling your children! Interested? Launch Your Homeschool enrolment is currently closed. Doors open Summer 2022, insha’Allah.  JOIN THE WAITING LIST Here: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses Peace and love,

Ramadan is a month of spirituality and moral values and is a great opportunity for parents to teach their children ethics and values. You can take advantage of this holy month by implanting the beauty of the month of Ramadan in your children’s hearts and minds. During Ramadan, children build important memories which will influence how they feel about Ramadan and other Islamic traditions in later life. Let us try and create meaningful memories and habits by making the MOST of Ramadan WITH our kids. In  Episode 69 of the Raising Mums podcast, we talk about how we can make Ramadan meaningful for all the family. Make the most of Ramadan with your children by trying to:- Ramadan is a time to realign, revive and awaken sprituallySlow down everything, except your spirutal practicesWhen you slow down, you have more time to help your kids connect with the blessed month of RamadanReduce unnecessary commitmentsPreserve your energyRamadan is intrinsically beautiful and special Related: Get Hundreds of FREE Resources to help you educate your child at home. JOIN OUR FREE RESOURCES LIBRARY HERE: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/library Related: Meal Planning for Ramadan + FREE PRINTABLE HERE: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2017/04/meal-planning-ramadan-free-printable.html How to Start Your Muslim Homeschool Launch Your Homeschool is an online course that will hold your hand and walk you through the beginning stages of homeschooling, built upon the framework of the Charlotte Mason philosophy. I teach you how to choose the right subjects for your homeschool, how to choose the right resources and plan out your year to create a homeschool experience that aligns with the values and beliefs of your family. Whether you are homeschooling in the UK, or elsewhere in the world, this programme will help you give your children an incredible education at home.  I show you the essential teaching techniques that you’ll need to know to get started. There’s even an entire module on how to manage your time so you can still cook, keep the house tidy and take care of yourself, all whilst homeschooling your children! Interested? Launch Your Homeschool enrolment is currently closed. Doors open Summer 2022, insha’Allah.  JOIN THE WAITING LIST Here: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses Peace and love,

You have a lot to do. In addition to all your other jobs and responsibilities, you've also chosen to home educate your children. That's huge! It's no wonder that when you can't keep up with the homeschooling curriculum, you worry they're falling behind. You worry that they're not where they're supposed to be, that you're failing as a homeschooler, and perhaps you should put them in school. But before you jump to that decision, listen to this episode of the podcast! In Episode 68 of the Raising Mums podcast, we talk about feeling behind in your homeschooling curriculum and what you can do to feel more positive about educating your children at home. Get Hundreds of FREE Resources to help you educate your child at home. JOIN OUR FREE RESOURCES LIBRARY HERE: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/library If you're feeling behind remember: That story is not serving you of your children. Behind according to what? Compared to who? The belief that life will be better once you "catch up" robs you of the present; and the joy and connection you could be experiencing with your children now.Your children are exactly where they are meant to be. You are exactly where you are meant to be. Be the mother you wish to be, now. Don't wait for when everything is perfect, because that day will never come. How to Start Homeschooling Launch Your Homeschool is an online course that will hold your hand and walk you through the beginning stages of homeschooling, built upon the framework of the Charlotte Mason philosophy. I teach you how to craft a curriculum for your homeschool, how to choose the right resources and plan out your year to create a homeschool experience that aligns with the values and beliefs of your family. Whether you are homeschooling in the UK, or elsewhere in the world, this programme will help you give your children an incredible education at home.  I show you the essential teaching techniques that you’ll need to know to get started. There’s even an entire module on how to manage your time so you can still cook, keep the house tidy and take care of yourself, all whilst homeschooling your children! Interested? Launch Your Homeschool enrolment is currently closed. Doors open Summer 2022, insha’Allah.  JOIN THE WAITING LIST Here: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses Peace and love,

Deciding to homeschool is a huge undertaking. As you make that choice, you’ll wrestle with emotions of doubt and fear; anxiety and self-loathing; confusion, and utter panic! And when you step out on the other side and boldly make that decision to home-educate, you may assume you’re the victor; that you’ll never face such difficult decisions again. Bad news friend...you will! But using the framework and coaching technique I teach in episode 67 of Raising Mums, will help you to make the right decisions for your Muslim homeschool, insha'Allah. Just click on the play button above to find out more! In Episode 67 of the Raising Mums podcast, we talk about what to do, when you don't know what to do! I share how to overcome confusion and make a decision in your Muslim homeschool with confidence and faith. Key Points: All you have to do is take the next step. Allah will show you what to do after that. Confusion is your brain's way of protecting you from the unknown. You know what you need to do. Find the courage to do it.Stop allowing your brain to worry about the future, and focus on the now. Stop worrying about the way - just take the next step. "The emaan (faith) of a person cannot be true until he has more trust in that which is in Allah's Hands than that which is in his own hands." - Ali ibn. Abi Talib (RA) How to Pray the Istikhara Prayer: https://seekersguidance.org/answers/hanafi-fiqh/istikhara-the-prayer-of-seeking-guidance/ GET YOUR BOOKLIST HERE! The 18 Best Books for Muslim Children 0-5 https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/booklist Get Hundreds of FREE Resources to help you educate your child at home. JOIN OUR FREE RESOURCES LIBRARY HERE: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/library How to Start Your Muslim Homeschool Launch Your Homeschool is an online course that will hold your hand and walk you through the beginning stages of homeschooling, built upon the framework of the Charlotte Mason philosophy. I teach you how to choose the right subjects for your homeschool, how to choose the right resources and plan out your year to create a homeschool experience that aligns with the values and beliefs of your family. Whether you are homeschooling in the UK, or elsewhere in the world, this programme will help you give your children an incredible education at home.  I show you the essential teaching techniques that you’ll need to know to get started. There’s even an entire module on how to manage your time so you can still cook, keep the house tidy and take care of yourself, all whilst homeschooling your children! Interested? Launch Your Homeschool enrolment is currently closed. Doors open Summer 2022, insha’Allah.  JOIN THE WAITING LIST Here: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses Peace and love,

Homeschooling moms have a lot on their plate. You’re often playing the role of housewife, mom, teacher, wife…and more. Homeschooling is fulfilling, interesting and exciting, but it can also be challenging and just plain hard! Being a homeschool mom can take sacrifice to a new level so it is so important that you take care and have confidence in yourself, but many of us completely ignore our own needs. Listen to the Our Muslim Homeschool Podcast, Raising Mums, to get some practical tips to deal with these challenges. In Episode 66 of the Raising Mums podcast, I share how to Break your Homeschool! Key Points: There is no homeschool without a homeschool mumWithout your health, there will be no homeschool; not now and not in the future.Say "no" and establish healthy boundariesLearn to trust your own decisions and inner wisdom GET YOUR BOOKLIST HERE! The 18 Best Books for Muslim Children 0-5 https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/booklist Related: How to Homeschool Successfully | Ten Tips from the Heart https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/2021/07/how-to-homeschool-successfully-ten-tips-from-the-heart.html How to Start Homeschooling Launch Your Homeschool is an online course that will hold your hand and walk you through the beginning stages of homeschooling, built upon the framework of the Charlotte Mason philosophy. I teach you how to choose the right subjects for your homeschool, how to choose the right resources and plan out your year to create a homeschool experience that aligns with the values and beliefs of your family. Whether you are homeschooling in the UK, or elsewhere in the world, this programme will help you give your children an incredible education at home. I show you the essential teaching techniques that you’ll need to know to get started. There’s even an entire module on how to manage your time so you can still cook, keep the house tidy and take care of yourself, all whilst homeschooling your children! Interested? Launch Your Homeschool enrolment is currently closed. Doors open Summer 2022, insha'Allah. JOIN THE WAITING LIST Here: https://ourmuslimhomeschool.com/courses Peace and love, Dr Gemma Elizabeth