Umrah is the ultimate goal and acknowledgment of Muslims all across the world. Moreover, parents need to ensure it and its affection are perpetuated in kids. Some strongly prefer bringing their kids to perform it and some are tentative about this. But we suggest you to take them with you and teach them about Islam from starting to develop the love of Allah (SWT) and His Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (S.A.W). If you’re here, then it means that you are already planning to take your kids for Umrah but need some essential tips to make your travel worth experiencing without any hassle. We understand that performing Umrah is the desire of every Muslim and people having toddlers and infants on this pilgrimage would have a tiring or antsy experience. Although for parent’s kids are their greatest concern and they don’t want to leave them in other's hands. Don’t worry! It could be convenient for you to manage your trip with children, just follow some remarkable tips and tricks.
There’s nothing like executing this Holy ritual with your family and feeling a whole new lot. Keep in mind, that this religious tour tends to require very rigorous planning, particularly if you’re bringing your little ones. We believe that performing Umrah with your children is a blessed opportunity because Allah not only called you to be the guest of His house but He called your kids as well. All you need is positivity and think of this chance as the supreme blessing of Allah (SWT) to your family. People going to execute this rite wants to put their focus solely on worshipping Allah Almighty and thinks that taking kids with them will disturb them and draws their attention. They’re right! But don’t take it this way! Take it in a way that your children are your assets and you want them to be filled with the love and affection of their creator in them so they’ll know its significance in Islam. However, we have prepared a comprehensive description of the tips and recommendations for parents who have decided to go to Umrah with their family and children:
There are a number of books and facilities available to connect your children to the idea of Umrah and to help them understand the value of this Ibaadah. Another method to get them prepared for such a major tour is to wear them Ihram and practice Tawaf and Sa’i with them! So, they can feel that there are some essentials steps you need to cater before entering Haram. Teach them that Allah is the one, He is your only creator and you should make Dua to him by joining your hands. Also, explain to them that Hazrat Muhammad (S.A.W) is our Last Prophet and by following his Sunnah we are performing this. It is a perfect prospect to teach them the basics of Islam and to refresh your knowledge as well. Tell them that Allah grants countless rewards by performing this ritual and it’s a way that leads you to Jannah.
No matter what, health has always been the first priority of every individual and parents always get worried about maintaining their kid’s good health. As you travel to a mixing environment of people from throughout the globe, there must be diseases and viruses too. We know the excitement of meeting new people with diverse cultures and traditions but safety comes first. Make sure to get your children and yourself vaccinated before reaching there. Remember that all vaccines must be taken a few weeks before the excursion, as children appear to have a mild fever after they have been immunized.
The main thing when you perform Umrah is keeping the track of your kids but in a crowded place like Haram, it gets really difficult to leave your children alone or to keep an eye on them. So, it's a good and safer thing to get them tethered to you. Unlike strollers, these are allowed to enter the Haram. Nothing would be able to hold your child as safe as this carrier while you are moving through crowds during the circumambulation. Baby carriers and belts are accessible from birth to the age of 36 months.
Umrah demands a lot of walking just think of walking more than 10km walking a day so it's essential to get a couple of quite comfy shoes! If you don’t have comfortable shoes or sneakers, do buy one and it would be really helpful for you. Manufacturers like Skechers, Nike, and many more are popular for footwear in the long run because they are highly comfortable and relaxing. Another main point here is to buy your shoes several weeks before your departure and test them by wearing them again and gain. Make yourself comfortable in them and then take them with you. Because you are also carrying the weight of a baby with so it’s a must. Choice of your shoes also depends on climate conditions but the important thing is they must not hurt you rather should comfortable and relaxed in the long-run.
In reality, this is a serious obstacle, as the ladies' restrooms are normally quite distant from the prayer places, so you can't hope to change a diaper easily after a few hours. So ensure to change a diaper before heading to the mosque to avoid going and again to the hotel room because it really disturbs you while praying. It would be advantageous to have your accommodation near Haram as it is often unavoidable.
Don’t forget to visit any sacred place or praying while taking care of your kids. It would be beneficial for you if you compile a list of your religious activities before leaving and functions by following that so you don’t miss out on anything. Moreover, pray as much as you can for your family and kids and ask Allah to guide everyone towards the right path.