What is a Ramadan Qur’an-A-Thon Sadaqah Drive?

In this post you will find all necessary information to participate:

• The Program’s Purpose/Objective, Deadline Dates, and Contact Information,
• Instructions how to participate, and
• The Qur’an-A-Thon Certification Pledge Form.

This program is designed to be completed completely online this year. At http://americanmuslimmom.com each participant may register, download pledge   forms, seek pledges from local family and friend, have their Qur’an recitation certified by a local official of his/her choice, and then make secured online pledges directly to Islamic Relief USA.

American Muslim Mom launched July 15, 2009 as the first and only online (or offline) blog magazine dedicated to Muslim Moms and Their Children in America. With our growing international community of Muslim parents determined to raise Mu’miniyn in the West (and East) despite any obstacles we may face. As such, American Muslim Mom designed this program with the Purpose and Objectives listed below.

American Muslim Mom chose to partner with Islamic Relief USA because it is one of the most reputable, international relief and development Islamic non-profit organizations. In support of encouraging children to study the Qur’an and make charitable giving a part of their daily habits, Islamic Relief USA willfully accepted the opportunity to partner and promote this program for the 2nd year in a row. Together, we will acknowledge every child that participates with gifts and awards, inshaAllah.

Together, Islamic Relief USA and American Muslim Mom are determined to reach as many children as possible in this year by allowing all children to participate even though payments are only accepted in US dollars for Islamic Relief. Intenational children will be given the opportunity to make sadaqah at their local Islamic charitable organization of their choice. Of course, if they have USD, we pray that they’d contribute to IF-USA

We graciously ask that you help us recruit participants individually or collectively as part of an Islamic day school, weekend school, homeschool coop, Qur’an/Hifz school, Islamic youth groups, and/or individuals such as public school students who seek private Qur’an tutoring.

Program Materials:

Program information is all available on this post, and the only form to downloaded this year is  Qur’an-A-Thon Certification Pledge Form.

Purpose/Objective:

Narrated Aisha: The Prophet said, “Such a person as recites the Qur’an and masters it by heart, will be with the noble righteous scribes (in Heaven). And such a person exerts himself to learn the Qur’an by heart, and recites it with great difficulty, will have a double reward.”  (Book #60, Hadith #459, Sahih Bukhari)

Narrated Ibn ‘Abbas: Allah’s Apostle was the most generous of all the people, and he used to be more generous in the month of Ramadan when Gabriel used to meet him. Gabriel used to meet him every night in Ramadan to study the Holy Qur’an carefully together. Allah’s Apostle used to become more generous than the fast wind when he met Gabriel (Book #54, Hadith #443, Sahih Bukhari)

To help young Muslims appreciate and live more closely to the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace & blessings be upon him) by

(1) Learning more ayats of the Qur’an by heart,

(2) Understanding and appreciating the act of earning money,

(3) Allowing children to gain a sense of pride by making charitable gifts to the needy, and

(4) Completing these generous acts in the name of Allah (May He be Glorified) during our blessed month of Ramadan when our rewards are multiplied by the number only Allah knows and wills.

Who may participate?

• Any Muslim child able to recite and memorize Qur’an based on the rules of tajweed up to 18 years of age.

NEW: Worldwide Participation.

• Muslim children in the US will make sadaqah to Islamic Relief USA and pick his/her preferred charitable campaign (”Designation) here.
• Muslim children living outside of the US may make sadaqah to any Islamic institution or charitable organization of their choice.

How are the funds raised in this event?

• Each participating young Muslim will seek sponsorship from friends, family members, and others (Muslims & non-Muslims).
• Each sponsor will determine upon signing a pledge form to pay a predetermined amount of money (example 25 cents or $1) for each ayah (or surah) of the Qur’an that the participant reads with correct tajweed to an Islamic scholar or learned adult during the event*, OR
• The sponsor may also elect to pay a fixed amount of money as sponsorship for the participant regardless of the number of ayahs or surah he/she reads, recites or memorizes (for example: a sponsor may pledge to contribute one set price of $50).
• *It is recommended that each participating young Muslim describes the number of ayats (or surah) which is a realistic amount for that one participant to memorize with correct tajweed with in 30 days. Therefore, no one misleads the one is making a pledge. For example, its

How to Participate Ramadan 1431/2010?

• First 10 days of Ramadan [August 11 - 20, 2010] – Memorize as many ayats/surahs with correct tajweed as possible.
• REQUIREMENT: Comment below with your child/ren’s first name and last initial, age and his/her goal for memorizing the Qur’an.
• Second 10 days of Ramadan [August 21 - 30, 2010] – Continue to memorize as many ayats/surah with correct tajweed as possible, and be tested by an Islamic scholar or learned adult, called the Examiner. The Examiner must use certify on the bottom of the pledge form and acknowledge with his/her signature how many ayats/surah the participant recited correctly.
• OPTIONAL: Comment below with your child/ren’s progress so we can help motivate one another.
• Last 10 days of Ramadan 21-26 [August 31 – September 8/9. 2010 ] – Collect the pledge money and make your Sadaqah. US residents donate directly to IF-USA here. Please let your child/ren pick his/her own Designation for his/her sadaqah.
• REQUIRED: Upon completion,
  • Fax or email your Pledge form to contact@americanmuslimmom.com or Fax 858-552-5656, We will post the amount of sadaqah raised based on these completed pledge forms.
  • Comment below stating that you completed the program.

*It is critical to collect and return pledges on or before the 30th day of Ramadan, so our children receive the greatest amount of rewards for their hard work and efforts.

Jazaka Allahu Khayrun to my eldest daughter for making this year’s blog button. Please feel free to check out her many tutorials “How to Blog”, and grab your own button to show your proud participation!

Alhumdulilah, we feel blessed that we’ve received numerous emails and even phone messages requesting if and when we’re going to host this Summer Reading Program again, so here it is! All you have to do is read at least one Islamic fiction or non-fiction book and share your honest review so we can post it online for everyone to read.

Objective:

• To read and review Islamic children and adult books from July 15, 2010 – August 15, 2010,
• Create a comprehensive list of recommended Islamic books, and
• Share the reviews with as many Muslim (and non-Muslim interested in Islam) children as possible, by publishing reviews on AmericanMuslimMom.com in our brand new channel just for Muslim Kids MuslimKids.AmericanMuslimMom.com [Today was officially launched!]
• All participants receive a prize.

*Participants may opt not to have their reviews published.

Rules:

• Participants must be make an official Intent to Participate, between July 15, 2010 and August 15, 2010,
• Any child from Birth– Senior Year of college/university, who is interested in reading Islamic non-fiction or fiction books (Non-Muslims welcomed),
• Participants must be a U.S. resident,
• Islamic books read should be at or near one’s reading level,
• Islamic books read aloud count,
• Islamic books can only be listed once,
• Only books read completely count, not partially read book,
• Islamic books must be read between July 15 – August 15, 2010,
• Use the Official Islamic Book Review Form and Reading Journal to review at least one Islamic book. A parent/guardian must sign the journal when it is completed.
• At least one Islamic book must be read and one Islamic book review form must be completed. Reading additional Islamic books are highly encouraged.
• While on prize will be given to all participants, additional Islamic books, games, gift certificates, etc. will be randomly selected.
• Limited to one additional award per child, per summer.
• The Founder/Owner/Publisher of AmericanMuslimMom.com and her family members are not eligible for prizes.
• Islamic schools. You are allowed to list the full-time, weekend or summer Islamic academy that you are a student of (you may only list one school). For homeschoolers, we recommend that you register as a local co-op, study group (youth halaqah). Whichever school has the most participants will receive a group of Islamic Books donated to their libraries.
• Deadline: Postmarked by August 15, 2010.

Instructions:

• * Register your child/ren from Birth – Senior Year of college/university, during the Reading Challenge period of July 15, 2010 – August 15, 2010 (details below)
• Print out the Official Islamic Book Review Form and Reading Journal * Children read books at their reading level, or read-aloud to by an adult
• Complete one full Islamic Book Review, and list additional Islamic books read on the journal with all sections completed. A parent/guardian must sign the journal when it is completed.
• Mail the completed review form and reading journal to the address provided on the Review Journal (one per child). Multiple children from the same household may send their journals in one envelope for your convenience.
• Each participant will be sent a certificate and a prize in the mail as promptly as possible.
• Special prizes will be awarded to different age or selected groups by criteria stated for that prize.
• Deadline: Postmarked by August 15, 2010.

How to Register:

[Purpose: We need to know the first name and age of each child to purchase the correct amount and appropriateness of prizes.]

• Participant must be officially signed-up on or before August 15, 2010.
• Participants can not register until the Official Kick-Off date of July 15,2010.
• Comment below on this Official Kick-Off webpage with your child or children’s first name(s) and last initial(s) and age(s).
• Having problems? Email: contact@americanmuslimmom.com

Children’s Design a Button Contest

Design a Button Coloring Contest Rules:

1. Open the coloring page here.
2. Design a Button. Create & Enjoy!
3. Scan and email on or before 12 midnight EST August 15, 2010 to contact<at>americanmulismmom.com or postal mail it with your Official Book Journal.
4. Email must state: (a) Child’s full name. Only the first name and last initial will be publicized. (b) Age and DOB (date of birth).
5. Winning Design will be used for next year’s Summer Islamic Reading Challenge, inshaAllah.

About the Host:

AmericanMuslimMom.com started as a family blog in 2005 and is now a family-oriented online magazine that encourages Muslim Moms in America and American Muslim Moms living abroad to share their tips, tools and resources as they raise Mu’minyn (true believers) based on the Qur’an and Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace & blessings be upon him). The community benefits from Islamic, motivational, educational, practical, and fun articles, reviews, videos, contests, giveaways and much more. To participate in the 2nd Annual Summer Islamic Reading Challenge and/or receive free gifts and prizes, logon to http://AmericanMuslimMom.com today!

AmericanMuslimMom.com is founded by Ponn M. Sabra a best-selling author, writer, columnist and internet marketer, homeschool mom of three girls, and past administrator of an Islamic weekend school, and full-time Islamic elementary learning center and daycare.

Comment Below  to Read & Review Islamic Books.

Please help spread the word by sharing this article and/or posting our button on your blog.

•You and your kids can dig into agricultural science: Visit the Ellsworth Hill Orchard & Berry Farm in Sharon, Connecticut Ellsworthfarm.com so kids can get a hands-on introduction to agricultural science! From great orchard tours to a corn maze, there are fun, educational activities for little ones of all ages.

Get your little ones excited about math, science, and a lot more: The Stepping Stones Museum for Children SteppingStonesMuseum.org is a great way to get your young ones just entering school excited about all the subjects they are about to learn.  The Museum has great exhibits and programming for young kids and it’s a great, hands-on introduction to academics!

We attended their monthly free admissions night, which is the last Thursday of every month between 5 – 8 pm. We had a blast!

• For the full list of 25 FREE Family-Fun Day-Trips in CT, click here.
• Learn how to find even more FREE admissions to Museums, Factories, Farms, etc.
• Are you over 62 years old? Get into State and National Parks for FREE.

•Get the grade schoolers into environmental conservation and learning about new cultures: Kids can travel the globe, learn more about environmental causes and new cultures by using their imagination and the click of the mouse.   HabitatHeroes.com, the first online social networking site for young eco-warriors includes games that teach children about endangered species, the environment, healthy eating, and cultures around the world. [Click here for our review.]

•Teach creative writing during the car ride to grandma’s house: Venerable publisher Rand McNally has recently developed a line of five games, which they call The Boredom Breakers, as a refreshing alternative to portable player and handheld video games many families use to pass time on long road trips or while shuffling around town.  One of the Boredom Breakers, “Story Starters,” is an interactive CD packed with 72 minutes of funny stories, mysteries and games. [Click here for our review.]  Story Starters combines the best of classic radio-style drama and audio effects to get families telling stories together.

Many thanks Beth of DKC and Beth of RoleMommy for their help and support. My girls and I are enjoying working with both of you very much and look forward to building our relationships.

Please share your experiences, tips and thoughts below.

Due to the breaking news of the California wildfires, we we cut off and I wasn’t able to share the Rand McNally Boredom Breakers car game series. So, here’s our review, if you missed it earlier this week.

I really enjoyed my time with Sarah French. But, our time right before our interview was absolutely insane. We were rushing during a commercial break updating my intro, putting on microphones and trying to find the producer  all while hearing people yelling 2-minute countdown…30-seconds, etc.

The Producer informed me in a rush, that I was not aloud to bring up my association to American Muslim Mom blog, although I’d be introduced as a mommy blogger. She kept stressing that I can’t discuss religion, and the title of my website alone denotes religion and the network can’t promote it.

But, I informed her that I’m not a part of any other mom blog. I even asked if they found my Empower Women Now for women entrepreneurs…but, she said no, it’s something else.

Anyways, I didn’t have the number of my publicist, to find out which blog I was supposedly “a part” of. Knowing my introductions to the products and DKCNews was from RoleMommy, I mentioned it to the producer when she was rushing by and she said ‘yes, that’s it’.

The problem (as I anticipated) happened when I sat in the studio, with lights and camera on us. Their own anchor, Sarah French, told me she’ll introduce me and give me an opportunity to talk about any thing I wanted about my mommy blog. She said to tell her where my tips can be found, etc.

I was confused yet again.

She showed me what the TelePrompter wrote as my introduction.

So, we began to rush, change and even update misprints in her notes, while looking for the producer. Then, finally we heard a staff person yell,

“she said, she can’t say anything about American Muslim Mom”.

So, in 3-2-1…I offered to go right into my 3 tips instead of having an intro [we're on the air]

1. Making more family fun day trips with your kids for free,
2. Playing educational car games, and
3. Playing free educational online games.

Now, there was nothing religious about our pitch to be a mommy blogger who has tips to help transition kids back to school.

Nonetheless, here are some positive thoughts to share:

• I’m happy about the wonderful relationships I built with RoleMommy and DKCNews because of this opportunity.
• I liked being called a “Mommy Blogger” to show that we are educated professionals, and do have a purpose to educate and share wonderful tips and resources on and offline.
• I’m proud to be a Muslim Mom who blogs, and has newsworthy information to share beyond “promoting” any “assumed” religious message.
• Being on Fox61 News with a hijab was great! I’ve been on TV and the news many times in my previous careers (real estate, public health, and as an entrepreneur), all prior to my covering for the sake of Allah (may He be Glorified).
• By far, this is the best title and role ever: Being a Muslim Mom (my life) Blogger (my new growing passion)!

While there was a ton of confusion surrounding the minutes before the interview, I believe Sarah and I did very well in sharing our main points of back to school tips–which had nothing to do with religion in the first place.

It’s obvious that I was excited & happy to share my tips. I wasn’t even nervous–actually, it was painfully funny.

Regardless, all the chaos prior to going on the air may have been the culprit to my head bee-booping happily throughout the interview. I know I’m an animated speaker, but have I always been a head bopper, too!? Leaving today with a laugh!

I would LOVE to hear your thoughts and input. Please comment below.

Follow-up Interview Tips (with available links) available here.

Special Note to David Grant: I enjoyed a motivating and reflexive conversation yesterday. Thank you for publishing an interesting article about Ramadan as practiced by Muslims here in America. I hope you’ll keep my cell phone number handy for future opportunities to work together!

Alhumdulilah (Praise to be to God), one 20-minute conversation with Associated Press’s David Grant of Detroit,  turned into over 50 media placements in reputable media outlets, such as LA Times, Chicago Tribune, Yahoo News! Subhanallah (Glory be to Allah), this news coverage forced us to debut our “Press” page.

While we discussed much more than the 2 tiny lines shared in this story, the full article shares the fundamentals of fasting in Ramadan and shares an interesting perspective of one of our beloved pillars in Islam.

To support *good news* being reported about Muslims in America, we at American Muslim Mom graciously urge you to comment on individual articles, share the links via email and/or social networking or bookmarking sites, and/or even write letters to the editor thanking them for their time and efforts. If the media outlets see our concerted effort to thank them for their good reporting, rather than complaining about poor-media-images; inshaAllah, more wonderful opportunities may arise and bless us for working in the name and sake of Allah (May He be Glorified).

Linked below are a fraction of the articles published.We’ll keep updating the Press page as new articles are published, inshaAllah.

We’d love to hear your thoughts, please comment below as well.

August 21, 2009 As the holy month of Ramadan creeps into summer, US Muslims plan to stay up later, fast longer

Washington Examiner

San Francisco Examiner

August 20, 2009 Longer, Hotter Days Strain Islamic Holy Month

South Carolina’s The State

Miami Herald

Ramadan Kareem! Happy Ramadan!

The 1st Nationwide Ramadan Qu’ran-A-Thon Sadaqah Drive officially begins today, Ramadan 1, 2009 (Saturday, August 22, 2009) throughout the month of Ramadan.

Our goal is to encourage correct Qur’an recitation & memorization, and offer charity for the sake of Allah (May He Be Glorified) during our blessed month of Ramadan by our youngest Mu’miniyn living in America.

Program Materials:

• May be downloaded from the following files listed below:

1. AMM-IFUSA Qur’an-a-thon Ramadan 2009 Intro letter (critical program details are listed below in this article as well),




2. AMM Qur’an-A-Thon Registration Form (PDF), AMM Qur’an-A-Thon Registration Form (Excel file),
3. AMM Qur’an-A-Thon Certification Form (PDF), AMM Qur’an-A-Thon Certification Form (Word doc), and
4. AMM Qur’an-A-Thon Pledge Form (PDF), AMM Qur’an-A-Thon Pledge Form (Word doc).

• May be mailed upon request to:

Islamic Relief
265A Route 46 West, Suite 3A
Totowa NJ 07512
Phone: (973)890-1030

Notice of Intent

To purchase the correct amount and appropriateness of prizes, it is critical that you comment below with your Notice to Participate. Please state the number of children participating, their ages and genders.

Since this is our debut program, we are open to any and all feedback, recommendations and suggestions throughout the duration of this program. Please comment below and we will address the issues as best we can, inshaAllah.

Purpose/Objective:

Narrated Aisha: The Prophet said, “Such a person as recites the Qur’an and masters it by heart, will be with the noble righteous scribes (in Heaven). And such a person exerts himself to learn the Qur’an by heart, and recites it with great difficulty, will have a double reward.”  (Book #60, Hadith #459, Sahih Bukhari)

Narrated Ibn ‘Abbas: Allah’s Apostle was the most generous of all the people, and he used to be more generous in the month of Ramadan when Gabriel used to meet him. Gabriel used to meet him every night in Ramadan to study the Holy Qur’an carefully together. Allah’s Apostle used to become more generous than the fast wind when he met Gabriel (Book #54, Hadith #443, Sahih Bukhari)

To help young Muslims appreciate and live more closely to the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace & blessings be upon him) by

(1) Learning more ayats of the Qur’an by heart,

(2) Understanding and appreciating the act of earning money,

(3) Allowing children to gain a sense of pride by making charitable gifts to the needy, and

(4) Completing these generous acts in the name of Allah (May He be Glorified) during our blessed month of Ramadan when our rewards are multiplied by the number only Allah knows and wills.
Who may participate:

• Any Muslim child able to recite and memorize Qur’an based on the rules of tajweed up to 18 years of age.

How are the funds raised in this event:

• Each participating young Muslim will seek sponsorship from friends, family members, and others (Muslims & non-Muslims).
• Each sponsor will determine upon signing a pledge form to pay a predetermined amount of money (example 25 cents or $1) for each ayah (or surah) of the Qur’an that the participant reads with correct tajweed to an Islamic scholar or learned adult during the event*, OR
• The sponsor may also elect to pay a fixed amount of money as sponsorship for the participant regardless of the number of ayahs or surah he/she reads, recites or memorizes (for example: a sponsor may pledge to contribute one set price of $50).
• *It is recommended that each participating young Muslim describes the number of ayats (or surah) which is a realistic amount for that one participant to memorize with correct tajweed with in 30 days. Therefore, no one misleads the one is making a pledge. For example, its

Deadline Dates:
Ramadan 2009

• First 10 days of Ramadan [August 22 - 31, 2009] – Memorize as many ayats/surahs with correct tajweed as possible.
• Second 10 days of Ramadan [September 1 - 10, 2009] – Continue to memorize as many ayats/surah with correct tajweed as possible, and be tested by an Islamic scholar or learned adult, called the Examiner. The Examiner must use the enclosed form and acknowledge with his/her signature how many ayats/surah the participant recited correctly.
• Last 10 days of Ramandan [September 11 - 20, 2009] – Collect the pledge money.
• Last 3 days of Ramadan [September 18 - 20, 2009] – Send in your pledge form and money, bank check or money order (no cash)* of the total amount of pledges collected to:

Islamic Relief
ATTN: Ramadan Qur’an-a-thon Sadaqah Drive
265A Route 46
Ste 3A
Totowa, NJ 07512

*It is critical to collect and return pledges on or before the 30th day of Ramadan, so our children receive the greatest amount of rewards for their hard work and efforts, inshaAllah.

Umm Nassim of Islamic Unit Studies! You won for helping spread the word about our country’s 1st Annual Summer Islamic Reading Program. Umm Nassim posted about American Muslim Mom’s launch and our reading challenge, and we received the most referred visitors from her blog over the past few weeks. Jazaka Allahu Khayrun (May Allah bless you for your work and efforts).

Even before the launch of one our new site, she supported our efforts & became one of the first families to register her children. Also, she’s the only blogger we could find who actually posted a Summer Islamic Reading Challenge button right on the top of her sidebar. WOW! Again, JazakaAllahKhir for your hard work and support.

Alhumdulilah (Praise be to Allah), Umm Nassim won The Beautiful Names by Saaleha Bhamjee donated by Muslim Writers Publishing + $10 Gift Certificate to Dar-us-Salam Islamic Bookstore

Please email us with your mailing address to we can send your book to you.

Kid’s Coloring “Design a Button” Contest

Unfortunately,we did not receive any entries, inshaAllah (God willing) everyone is busy reading their Islamic books

Therefore, we are extending this contest until the end of the program, and inshaAllah the winning design will be used for next year’s 2nd Annual Summer Islamic Reading Challenge button!

Alhumdulilah (Praise be to Allah)

We have 27 children registered to read Islamic books during our debut reading program. While, we had some duplicate entries, and I thought we were over 50 already, alhumdulilah–this is a great start! My girls are excited to know that other families are choosing to read Islamic books in addition to all the Free Summer Reading Programs offered throughout the country.

Of our registrants, the youngest is 7-weeks old baby, and oldest is a 18 year-old. I’m so honored and proud that we reached children in all our age categories because we have fabulous prizes to share! But, of course, there’s nothing better than dedicating some extra leisure reading time with the family for the sake and pleasure of Allah (May He be Glorified).

Please continue spreading the word. With your help, I know we can reach 200 children, inshaAllah.

That’s it for now! Please comment below and share how your reading experiences are coming along.

Alhumdulilah (All praise is to Allah).

We give all praise and worship to Allah, and ask that He blesses us for any work that we do in favor of furthering our deen (way of life). We ask forgiveness if we intentionally by ignorance or unintentionally by mistake shall lead ourselves or others astray. Ameen.

Welcome to the new official home of American Muslim Mom – A family-oriented online magazine for Muslim Moms living in America, American Muslim Moms living aboard, or any Muslim mom living in the West or a non-Islamic state determined to raise Mu’min (true believers) despite any obstacles that Allah, the Almighty, may lay in front of us.

We proudly welcome our many non-Muslims family, friends, colleagues and homeschool buddies from around the world who are respectful of Islam, and stick around because they quickly find out that we’re really NOT that different after all.

Because, I believe that

• All American Moms love a bargain, and freebies are even better!
• All American Moms want to provide our children with the very best education possible, and homeschooling is only one option.
• All American Moms want safe, healthy, wholesome games, toys, learning aids, books and more, and we appreciate honest recommendations.
• All American Moms love family vacations and mini-weekend get-aways, so if we can find a deal, we love to share the tip.
• All American Moms want to community of acceptance, respect, honor and trust; so, when we share our recommendations and opinions, we know we’re being heard.
• All American Moms want security, peace, happiness, love, life and fulfillment beyond this life on Earth, and
• All Muslim Moms, our belief is “La illaha illallah, Muhammadan Rasullaha” (There is only one God, God, and Muhammad is His (last) Messenger)–the first part being widely accept by most Moms regardless of religion.

So, we have a lot more in common than not.

To help spread the word of our new and improved online presence and help promote our country’s very 1st Annual Summer Islamic Reading Challenge, we holding two Contests. Our goal is to have at least 250 children and young adults entering PreKindergarten to Senior Year of College read at least one Islamic book this summer and write an honest review recommending or not recommending this book to others.

Additionally, to run this campaign, the estimated cost is $1500. We’ve received approximately $300 in donated gifts thus far, but we still need approximately $1200 in gifts and aid (since we promised to mail gifts to every participant). Please help spread the love of reading Islamic books by supporting this program with whatever means possible. While this is a free program, estimated cost per child is $3. Learn how to Support Us here, or make a generous donation here.

A. Mommy’s Promotional Campaign!

The one Muslim Mom who helps promotes AmericanMuslimMom.com and the 1st Annual Summer Islamic Reading Challenge the most will receive all the gifts listed above. All promotional acts comment below by 12 midnight, EST, Wednesday, July 22 29, 2009.

Please be as creative as possible. Listed below are the rules, and suggested methods of promoted AmericanMuslimMom.com. All entries must be written in the comments area with links supporting your promotional activity below.

RULES*:

• Contest is open to U.S. residents only. If you accept USD in a paypal account, international clients may apply.
• You must leave one comment telling us why you think a Summer Islamic Reading Program is important for our Muslim youth today.
• Write about the Summer Reading Program on your blog (you must make sure a trackback is logged, otherwise make an additional comment below).
• Post our challenge button on your website and comment below.
• Add this site to your blogroll for a minimum of 6-weeks (we’ll check the status by Technorati, but please remind us via a comment below).
• Sign up for our RSS feed (here) ideally by email, then forward the email to your family and friends. Every one person on your list will count as one promotional act. Proof of numbers must be provided. [Preference for email subscription having the same email address on the comment that you have in the RSS feed].
• Sign up for our optin eNewsletter (here) to receive your free eReports, and make an email recommendation to your family and friends. Every one person on your list will count as one promotional act. Proof of numbers must be provided.
• Post about the challenge at an appropriate forum and comment below. You must be the first in the forum to announce the challenge, or amend the forum post with a positive recommendation of the challenge.
• Post about the challenge in yahoo group, gmail group, or other listserve and comment below.You must be the first in the group to announce the challenge, or amend the forum post with a positive recommendation of the challange.
• Tweet about this challenge and comment below.
• Submit the challenge to your favorite social media site. Every submission counts as one promotional act.
• Bookmark this challenge page and comment below.
• Submit the challenge to linkedin, facebook, etc.
• Introduce the challenge to your local masjid, Islamic school (fulltime, weekend or summer programs) by passing out the challenge flyer, and comment below.
• Post our flyer at local Muslim markets, restaurants, businesses, etc. and comment below.
• Help target Muslim Student Associations, Muslim Youth Associations, Girls and boys halaqah and Hifz programs, and comment below.
• Invite us for a written or audio interview. Contact us at contact[at]americanmuslimmom.com
• Make a virtual introduction to Muslim media outlets, such as magazines, newspapers, periodicals, blogs, etc. Each introduction counts as one promotional act. For example, make 10 virtual email introductions equals 10-promotional acts.
• Make a virtual introduction to Muslim companies, corporations, and potential sponsors or advertisers. Each introduction counts as one promotional act. Any introductions turns into a sponsor or advertisers, receives an additional promotional act. For example, make 10 virtual email introductions and 2 becomes sponsors, equals 12-promotional acts.
• Recommend appropriate blog carnivals, such as your favorite mommy blog carnivals, or Muslim blog carnivals. Every one blog carnival counts as 1 promotional act, if we participate in any of the blog carnivals you receive an additional promotional act.
• Recommend appropriate blog directories, for example mommy blog directories, or Muslim blog directories. Every one blog directory counts as 1 promotional act, if we participate in any of the blog directories you receive an additional promotional act.
• Offer to volunteer to help publicize the challenge by emailing contact[at]americanmuslimmom.com
• Make a monetary donation (click here), or donate a gift or prize by emailing contact[at]americanmuslimmom.com
• Offer other promotional suggestions not mentioned above by commenting below.

*ALL past promotional acts prior to today counts, as long as you update your post with our new URL AmericanMuslimMom.com, and your comment below.

B. Children’s Design a Button Contest

RULES:

1. Open the coloring page here.
2. Design a Button. Create & Enjoy!
3. Scan and email on or before 12 midnight EST Wednesday, July 22 29, 2009 Friday, August 15, 2009 to contest[at]americanmulismmom.com
4. Email must state: (a) Child’s full name. Only the first name and last initial will be publicized. (b) Age and DOB (date of birth).
5. Age groups: 1-day – 8 years, 9 – 14 years, and 15 – 22 years.

Have fun!

Subhanallah, Alhumdulilah, La illaha illallah, Muhammadan Rasululah.

God is perfect, Praise be to God, There is Only One God-God, and Muhammad is His Messenger.

I can NOT begin to explain HOW frustrated I am to be at the disposal of others andtechnology.

Being a non-techie prohibits me greatly, then add my busy mommy-life which prohibits me to even have time to learn myself…

Then, top it off with the “code broke our test site”…URGH!

Sabr/Patience…my last name: Sabra….Patience…

Delegation is one major key to success, peace, happiness…more time…more efficiency…

All these words have been repeated in all my prayers over and over again.

So, first I don’t understand how-to -do-it…then, it breaks…

Then, there’s shipping misunderstandings…

If anyone (which we know many have) visited the new domain, one can see things go up & down…since the “code was breaking the test site” I finally approved to use our new domain and start working directly on it.

Then, shaytan wants to make me crazy…with little whispering debates…”due to lack of time: do I post the contest here so I don’t upset the audience, and to assure that the program and our site is legit!?!? Do, I keep all our great new fresh content for the new site??

Forgive me God the Almighty.

But, I didn’t let shaytan infitrate my head…because this site is dedicated to Allah…I have MORE reason to keep Him and Only Him on top of my mind.

So, I’ve been leaving the computer! Hey, I can’t do anything anyways

I have over 2-dozen books to read and review with my girls–we each have 2-3 different books going on at the same time.

Even if we read for the “other” Summer Reading Programs, we also read Islamic books, Arabic elementary books and the Qur’an each day.

Our librarian was impressed by all the girls’ reading.

So I shared that we (all 5 of us, including hubby) sit down daily for 90-minutes to read–this is only English books (secular & Islamic).

These 90-minutes do not count Arabic books, Qur’an, or any independent reading they do on their own throughout the day and night.

Remember, we always have books in the car, at doctor’s appointments, and even in grocery lines now…not ever place has the convenient self-check-out lanes that we love.

Anyways, the librarian remarks, “you must not let your girls watch TV”.

We discussed another homeschool family that reads a lot too; and that we’re the only 2 families that read a lot. But, she says they don’t even have a TV in their house.

I continued, “Me!? No Way! The girls CAN’T watch TV until they read 90-minutes. They can’t even pay on the computer until they read.” [Again, this is our summer routine. But, because it's so relaxing, peaceful during this time, it may be our year-long new habit, inshaAllah/God willing].

So, we continued to discuss all the benefits (at least for us) for the TV. It’s an educational must-have in our homeschooling lives!

Anyways, we chuckled when she was rest assured that I’m not one of those “extreme moms”"…

So, I shared…”come one…you know me…oh, and by the way as Muslims, and Everything we do is in Moderation“.

She looked at me…and we sighed in silence…hmm….”that makes sense”.

Alhumdulilah, Praise be to God. Allah is always in all that we do.

But, unfortunately, I’m told often–instances like this “learning lesson” come into my dear sisters’ days–but, rarely do I hear them finishing the story of how they shared little food of thought, or words of wisdom when Allah gave them a perfect opportunity to make dawaa (introduction/education to Islam).

It’s these little opportunities to shed light of Islam that makes our deen beautiful and approachable.

I have so many stories of “approachablility” from non-Muslims when total strangers come up to me and my girls, asking us questions.

They continue to share that they never felt comfortable “approaching” other Muslim women (obvious in their hijab/head scarf) before.

Then, they just felt like we would definitely answer their questions.

Subhanallah/God works in perfect ways.

I can literally say this has happened almost 50-60 times in the past 4 years of wearing a hijab.

Alhumdulilah/Praise be to God. Every single time we were welcomed with geniune interest, sincere desire, and the most-kind curiosity to learn more about who we are and what we believe.

So, I’m curious, since I have not heard many positive stories, PLEASE share any of your positive stories below:

- Sharing Islam openly in a daily conversation such as mine above with our librarian, or

- Non-Muslim stranger(s) just walking up to you (with OR without your kids) interested in finding out more about Islam.

Please feel free to start reading Islamic books, in preparation for the official launch of the 1st Annual Summer Islamic Reading Challenge.

Here’s a page filled with colorful and helpful Qur’an printables.

While making du’a last night for my family who is not with me now, I could only pray in tears thinking about all the blessings Allah SWT has afforded us–and while we’re an ocean apart and I could have cried missing them–I took the silence of my solitude to know that I DO have a loving husband and 3 very healthy, happy and wise daughters. As hard as it was to bear the silence of their absence, I took a second to think “what if” and quickly asked Allah SWT to give us strength & health, so we can come together soon.

So, yes–its human nature to fall victim to whining; but the words acted out and sung in this nasheed has settled in the pit of my heart to, insha’Allah, always ask for forgiveness for our human vices.

My dear sister, it takes courage to find peace in our own loneliness–and its not a bad thing to start taking time out of our days to strive to be happy by ourselves.

Please know that I am not a scholar but only a humble Muslim Mama walking the same path as you, striving and seeking the pleasure of Allah SWT, insha’Allah.

I feel your worries and your heavy heart aching; and apologize for the delayed response. It’s the first time back here in a while.

I ask for forgiveness if my thoughts are written in a less-than-clear sense that shall lead anyone astray. I ask anyone or everyone to support my thoughts with ahadith or ayats from the Qur’an; as my intention is to only share the very thoughts on my mind right now–knowing that my hubby and I have read much on this subject to give us the strength to courage to practice and raise our daughters accordingly; but I do not have the time to actually pull up the necessary references to support our actions.

With that big disclosure, here are a few thoughts of my humble thoughts that ran through my mind while reading your comments:

- Every child is different. We have 3 daughters, Masha’Allah, and each with her own personality, style, maturity-level, and spunk.

For example, our eldest (now 8 yo) always loved/still loves only her girl friends, and is extremely modest and the most girly of the three where she loves to dress, walk, talk, and dance like a lady in the privacy of our own home and family. Even when asked to share with extended family she’s shy and prefers not too. She chose at a very young age to distance herself from boys on a regular basis; and loved “Girl-time” when the 4 of us (with as many of their girl-friends as possible: which may be 0 – dozens) can do things that are only acceptable for us-girlz (ie. screeching laughs, manicures, pedicures, doing our hair, dressing up, dancing, singing, jumping around, etc.)

As we’re a girl-home, we often sing and dance for Baba…and they LOVE setting-up romantic scenes for the 2 of us. So, our girls are exposed to the very loving-nature of our marriage, alhumdulilah, and aspire to having this joy, companionship, peace and happiness with their future husbands, Yar Rabb. ~ Ameen.

Now, let me start by saying–I was never a girly-girl!

It was about 1-week after having our 3rd daughter that we joke that it took me “3 daughters to bring the woman out of me”. So, all the girly-things I mentioned above, I never did, nor imagined I’d ever do–and now I absolutely love it and can’t think of life without the very pleasures and luxuries we have as wifes, mothers and woman in Islam, alhumdulilah!

With that, we carry ourselves confidently at home with our limitations, and honor ourselves with dignity outside with our limitations.

So, at a very young age, my girls have a strong sense of love with the modesty and protection of our beauty for their future husbands–and adore pleasing their Baba with the giggles and dressing pretty because he’s the only man in their lives right now.

Even when our eldest wanted to start to dress more modestly during the summer at a very young age; we explained forcefully that Allah SWT put no restraint on them at 5 or 6 years of age.

We encouraged them to dress as pretty as they want, we went out and got the prettiest hair-ties and saying “while you can wear whatever you want–Have Fun!” They got to pick their own bathing suits, and we absolutely LOVE shopping. (Something I detested until now–because only now I have 3 shop-aholics to enjoy the ooooo’s and ahhhh’s with)

Each and every single one knows that at the age of 7, comes new responsibilities (they all witnessed their eldest one going through this past year maturely and honorably).

We weaned in the praying, fasting, etc. Everyone tested their own limits, and this was the year we aloud our eldest to dictate if she wanted to play or not play with boys–it was her choice. For her, she weaned away from them.

However, our 7 yo (this month), always stressed that her best-friends were boys this year: her weekend Islamic class was mostly boys, our neighbors have a girl-a boy-a girl (all the same ages as my girls), her best-friend in Ohio (where we left) is a boy, and when we visited cousins this Spring who has a 2 girls and a boy (the boy being her age).

She’s carefree, competitive in sports and a happy-playful girl, and we’ve never had a problem in terms of being curious, etc. that you describe of your daughter.

When her sisters bring up that she has “boy” friends (friends that are boys) she started to ask hubby and I if this was a problem. Alhumdulilah, we’re very open with her, would joke and say “we know none are your “BOY”friend, right!?” She’d scream “haram!”, like “dah, Mama & Baba, I know my limits, how dare you joke!”. So we laugh and share that they’re young and can be friends and play together…no big deal; so she thinks nothing of it.

Alhumdulilah, she’s our most romantic of all daughters. She’ll purposefully move the 2 of us together during family movies, will check a wink, smile or smirk that we’ll share; and always shares her classic line “Ohhhhh, how romantic” from her favorite movie “12 Dancing Princesses”.

She marvels at our bond, and is the first to make a loving-excuse if she sees the 2 of us disappointed or having a disagreement. “Mama is tired, she needs a time-out (meaning time by myself)” or “Baba had a bad day today, I heard him on the phone with work”.

So, when our 7 yo is with boys, she hasn’t exhibited any concerns, issues or curiosity. They’re just pals, so sometimes just to hit her buttons–her sisters will say “you have a Boy-friend”…and again she’ll hollar “Haram!”

We’re always with our girls, and playing tag or cards in the masjid has never been a problem for any of the girls, Alhumdulilah.

Keep in mind that we’re a very vocal family; and we stress that there is NOTHING that they can EVER say or ASK that will shock us. We tell our girls to ask and share whatever is on their mind!

I have many private discussions with our 8 yo, saying the beauty of being a girl and given her age–IF there’s EVER a new feeling (physically, emotionally, spiritually) WHATEVER to PLEASE share this with me.

Also, there will be things in the future, insha’Allah, that we’ll share that you may never want to tell Baba (because he’s man)–and this is what makes a Mama-Daughter relationship so special! We’re afforded this special bond that our secrets will make us stronger as woman, insha’Allah.

However, we’ve ALWAYS stressed that IF I was not around that they MUST confide with Baba, and share everything with him even if it may seem weird, and you may think Baba doesn’t know this stuff–but, he knows a lot, so nothing will shock him, insha’Allah!

We’ve talked alot lately about how they need to know that we’re their first confidantes, to never be scared to share anything to us–because if curiosity hits; where are you going to run for answers? Who else? The internet!?!? [To a certain extent...but we have an on-going joke about this. It's a tool and resource for parents; but not a replacement to parenting and/or teaching]

Alhumdulilah, they know (so far) that we have all the answers; meaning they know that we do not know everything; but it is our duty and job to find out, if we don’t know.

We will research, ask scholars, etc. to find the right answer.

And, because we’ve been consistent in this manner–we’ve never said “because I told you so”!

We’ve always explained our reasonings, and most often with an ayat or ahadith–after all there is NOTHING is this world that is NOT answered by our beloved Islam, right?

As for approaching sensitive issues with your daughter, I’ve weaned in all the same sentiments with our younger daughters in a fun age/personality-appropriate fashion. Our youngest is 5 yo now.

So, if I can impart any advice: I’d say start talking to your daughter openly and honestly; if you haven’t already.

Alhumdulilah, I’ve grown as a woman simply because my daughters remind me of the grave responsibility and honor it is to be a Muslimah.

Reminding me that there’s nothing but strength and beauty that is exhibited in being a curious and sensuous woman with the limitations that remain within our own honorable family–and This is what makes the inner and outer hijab SO gorgeous!

As for your daughter playing with her brother and friends, it must always be monitored and the weaning away should begin. But if lead by your son, expressing that he’s almost 10 yo and wants ‘guy-time’ this may seem more gradual approach for your daughter; giving you the time to bond and come more closely with her.

As for your mother’s conflicting advise of ‘keeping a close watch’ versus ‘you’re watching her too closely’–hey, we’re in her shoes now as mothers.

I, too, often want to snap something back; but “heaven lies at the feet of our mothers”, and with their older age and not having daily contact with kids, we must remain patient and know in our hearts that they mean well; and let us give them the excuse of their age that may prevent them from finding the best ways to express their feelings and thoughts.

We must use our age to bite our tongue and be grateful they are still here to experience this life with us; as I know I want to be here for my girls as long as possible (Yar Rabb) and can not imagine life without my Mommy as I want her to be around as long as possible too (Yar Rabb).

I’m VERY curious what you think. Please share below!

As we are all mortal and fallible, May Allah SWT guide, advise and bless us with patience, understanding and love with the difficult yet rewarding tasks for being a Muslim Mom. ~Ameen. [I was just tipped in, to this wonderful post from Motherhood.]

Wallingford Mosque - A controversial Proposition logo by Record Journal

Allahu alam (Only Allah knows best). [While quite long-winded, Please read in full & share your thoughts, issues, insights, etc. below.]

Alhumdulilah, I have been noted and quoted by my hometown newspaper Meriden’s Record Journal on many occassions. Since I was raised by a very proud and active family in the community, it wasn’t uncommon to find my siblings or my name or picture in the local news.

Coverage ranged from being listed as a honor student, photographed for our involvement in sports, leadership and community services, etc. and even having the opportunity to show-off our 3-foot upo (Filipino squash) from my parent’s amazing vegetable garden!

They (Record Journal) even followed my professional career when I became the youngest appointed public health official in the country when I was the Deputy Director of Health in Hartford, CT in 1998.

Now, I’ve never shyed away from the press because it’s free publicity; but more importantly, it is our opportunity to “educate the public” through our “rights of free speech”.

So, I’ve always taken the opportunity to utilize the press to educate others no matter which “new” career path I faced in my very ecelectic professional life.

From promoting a new public health campaign, educating the public about their options during a foreclosure, helping moms work from home successfully, developing one’s internet brand, etc. But, nothing compares to the closing remarks shared in today’s article, entitled “Both sides adamant in mosque dispute”.

“Some kind of prejudice”?

Ponn M. Sabra is the administrator of the Salma K. Farid Academy in Hamden, which is looking to start in September as a full-time learning center for children from 3 to 12 and an after-school center for those up to 18. It will be the first Islamic academy in New Haven County, she said. Born and raised in Meriden, Sabra is the daughter of a Buddhist father and a Catholic mother. She was raised a Catholic and attended Saint Joseph School, in Meriden, and Mercy High School, in Middletown, graduating in 1991.

Sabra, who is also an author, earned a degree in biology from Providence College and in 1998 received a master’s degree in public health from the University of Connecticut. After getting her master’s degree, she converted to Islam.

“The very essence of Islam is there is only one God, and that god is God,” she said. “I always believed that, and Muhammad is the messenger, the very last messenger.”

Sabra, a Meriden resident again after moving from Toledo, Ohio, said “traffic is really a moot issue” when it comes to the proposal in Wallingford. “We anticipated opponents, we didn’t expect ‘No Mosque,’” she said. “When you choose that word, its equivalent is saying no church or no synagogue.

“When they chose to use that word, it’s hard to feel that there wasn’t some kind of prejudice.”

“I’m amazed that you can think we’re doing anything less than noble,” she said.

Now, a Lot was revealed in these few sentences; and Khir, insha’Allah will come out of these words.

I haven’t even publicly shared my name in this blog because…well, too many reasons to list that are ALL irrevelant right now!

I was interviewed by 2 reporters that equalled approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes of our time.

After years of media exposure, along with taking media training courses, I wasn’t prepared to find all these bits and pieces of our varied conversation to be pulled out in such a way to expose some very personal facts of me and my family.

So, today’s news coverage is and will always be very personal to me and my family.

Subhanallah, commiting my family to the Salma K Farid Academy project was a very personal choice. And with the very ambitious goals the Farids and I have set for ourselves, I should’ve anticipated some personal moments…I just didn’t expect them to “come out” so soon

Allahu alam.

Now chosing to cover with hijab 4 years ago (this Ramadan, insha’Allah) was a very public and personal devotion to our beloved Allah SWT…but, taking on this role at Salam K Farid Academy has only amplified my family’s exposure to be “public” and more “personal”. While humbled by this great responsibility, I’m graciously asking your continued du’as.

During both of my interviews, we discussed in great details my views of Women in Islam, and my feelings about how I can speak against the ignorance of our preceived oppression. We also discussed how I feel we can better educate the public about the pure beauty and simplicity of Islam. While these topics were not discussed in the article, I know now that these are topics are of grave importance. And, while “personally” hard to discuss openly and publicly–I Must!

Only now; after reading their article, can I truly feel the strong duty and obligation I have to Allah SWT to take this role far beyond a “job” as I serve as a mere example of what all American Muslim Moms face each and every day as we walked our days living solely and proudly for our beloved Allah SWT.

So, whenever we are given the opportunity to educate others even if our gut would rather comfortably say nothing and sit in our own comfort-zone of silence…we can not any longer!

At the very least we must always think about our children and how we can instill pride, honor, confidence, and self-respect…if we don’t exhibit it ourselves.

I was never silent, nor hide behind anyone or anything…I just wasn’t prepared to openly allow the press to share my family’s religions, the timeline of my reversion (not “conversion”) to Islam…nor come out to seem “defensive” in any way.

But, the press does its own thing, putting into “context” in their terms.

With this strong realization, may WE always have the final words Sisters! Let the dialogue begin and forever live on in this dunya for one and only goal of the akhira. ~ Ameen

Share, share, and share some more in the comments area below.

P.S. In the internet-business, it never “came out” that I am a Muslim…when asked, I shared; but I’ve always separated religion and business. Now, there’s no way around it…so, insha’Allah, I’ll be more open about things. For example, here’s a bit about Me And, here’s the Academy’s cut & paste of the “good” news in the article.

Unfortunately, 4 teachers didn’t show up to our Islamic weekend school, and in a total frenzy I was pulling parents to oversea the classes, while offering suggestions and humor to help transition all these children to a leader-less room.

So, I started all the classes with, “do you even know who I am? or know my name?” [My point here was to only express that I'm not the substitute teacher, as I'm supposed to be upstairs in the office doing my work--after all, most knew me as the "Administrator", "Principal", or "Office woman that helps us"...but, to my Surprise!]

Some hands raised, and as I went around….Masha’Allah, Masha’Allah in 2 separate classes a child yelled, “You’re Sr. Happy!”

Children chuckled in chorus in both those classes. And, in the second instance, I asked if he was related to the other child from the XYZ classroom.

A negative reply followed.

Anyways, humbled and laughing along…I acted oblivious, and asked “What!? Why?” “Did you just make that up?”

Masha’Allah, in all 4 classes the kids yelled you’re always excited, happy, smiling, hugging kids, helping, etc.

In EVERY instance, I explained the the aheedith as simply and age-appropriate as possible:

Sahih Muslim which says that: “Every good act is an act of charity”. In another version the hadith, it says: “Your smile to your brother is a charitable act. Ordering good is a charitable act. Forbidding evil is a charitable act. Helping a man who has bad eyesight to see things is a charitable act. Removing a stone, rubbish or bones is a charitable act. Emptying your cup in the cup of your brother is a charitable act.”

Deed of the Day says “Spread a Smile”

The Prophet (Peace be upon him) has said: ‘Your smile for your brother is Sadaqah. Your removal of stones, thorns or bones from the paths of people is Sadaqah. Your guidance of a person who is lost is Sadaqah.’ (Bukhari)

Here’s a great article explaining Smiling as Charity in more detail.

In all honesty, my girls and I was so sorrily surprised to move back to CT and in every masjid we entered, smiles was a grave rarity.

We never saw hugs or kisses…but the general hand-shake, cheek-cheek, cultural-pat-hug…that didn’t show much affection at all.

Geez, I left a community where we hug and kiss so much…if anyone was late for an event, they basically missed out completely just for taking all the time to go sister-by-sister hugging and kissing! And, well there was an infamous “hugger” who I just adored seeing only to get a hug from her! [And, she knows who she is, Alhumdulilah ]

Then, here we come!

4 smiling, huggin’, fun-lovin’ chicks…and like WOW! We’re changing the ‘lil worlds around us…and, its really not in our daily agenda either. It’s just the way we are.

We attend a different masjid for Friday’s, and we’re often stopped because we’re always smiling…Are Smiles THAT rare!?

Unfortunately, they are

But, as I explain to my daughters and all the children I have contact with:

A smile is the cheapest, fastest and easiest form of charity ANYone can give! So, Smile for the sake of Allah (SWT) and the rewards and blessings will FAR exceed you little upward motion of your lips!

Don’t you agree!?

Education of Muslim Children – Challenges and OpportunitiesDr. Ibrahim B. Syed, Ph.D

Think your children are immune to the problems of public school by sending them to an Islamic school in America!?

Think again! Look at what Dr. Syed’s research compiled:

• Problems in Islamic Schools
  
  • No Adaab or Islamic etiquette or behavior
  • Parents want teachers to be lenient
  • Some girls and boys meet secretly in the basement.
  • They have girl-friends and boy-friends
  • They do smoke
  • Profanity is written on the walls, desks, blackboards, etc.
  • Behave roughly: laughing, talking, screaming, rip off their Hijab on the buses.
  • Discipline: Behavior is no different from the Public Schools.
  • Teachers are not fair. Spoiled kids as their parents are rich or important
  • Less school activities for girls. Little opportunity to interact with other students.
  • Islamic schools are running without an Islamic curriculum, often without a syllabus
  • No textbooks.
  • No qualified and trained teachers or certified teachers. (Quality in education is not possible without good teachers.)
  • Those who attend Muslim high schools do not fare better in college.
  • Non-Muslim teachers who are qualified and certified. (Live-in boyfriend, rejects institution of marriage. Wear tight and revealing outfit. Promote gay agenda, anti-religion agenda, or insensitive to Islamic values and events)
  • Qualified and certified Muslim teachers work in Public schools. As Islamic schools do not offer viable salaries, benefits (pension health benefits, etc.)
  • When they leave Islamic schools and graduate from colleges, some of them, they do marry non-Muslims as the Muslim community and their parents have exerted zero influence on them.
  • Chronic shortage of space, science labs, auditoriums, gyms, playgrounds, libraries, bathrooms.
  • High turnover rate (30 to 40 percent annually) of teachers.
  • Parents’ fear Islamic schools trade off academics for Islamic environment.
  • Organization, planning and discipline -suffer most in Islamic schools.
  • Governance is the big reason why most Islamic schools suffer
  • Do not develop an autonomous and unique decision-making (governance) structure
  • School Boards require training in how to run a school
  • School Boards rarely include women
  • Parents do not play a part in Governance structure
  • No qualified administrators
  • Some parents worry Islamic schools offer an inferior quality of education.
  • Children are not prepared to face competitiveness and the challenges of the modern world.
  • Seriously lacking in Muslim literature and culture.
  • For many Muslim families, Islamic schools are not affordable.
  • In sparse Muslim population areas, Islamic schools are not financially viable.
  • Very few trained Muslim teachers in special education or none

The MAJORITY of all these problems can be solved by 1-thing:
** Hiring certified teachers & having a business-charter-school-like Administrative team running the school!

So, yes…I can hear the debate now…I don’t have the patience to homeschool, or I don’t know how, etc.

Then, IF you must send your children to Islamic schools, Pay for higher tuition!
Demand certified teachers because you’re investing in their education…not demanding less because you can’t afford it.

Participate Heavily in the PTO/PTAs, don’t be a complainer.

Be a Solver & Solution-maker!

Show your children you’re putting their education first by Leading.

Be an example so pride and honor is instilled in them at a young age, that they will WANT to succeed in their education…not because good-grades get a smile on Your face…but, because the sence of accomplishment puts of smile on Theirs!

Have a hit a chord that’ll start making you comment and debate with me now?

Insha’Allah khir….only because I believe in our children! They deserve SO much, and America has SO many opportunities, freedoms, and WHY waste it because of our ignorance as parents?

Do NOT accept anything less than the best for our children…but, You need to invest your time, energy, efforts and Money in them too!

To give you an idea How expensive a good education is: average parochial and Islamic school tuition is $3300/child.

Yet, here in CT; charter schools will get getting $11K/child…and for one
charter school who just broke even, averaged $26K/child with certified teachers
and experienced administrative staff, full core and extracurricular activities
and so much more.

Our private independent elementary K-8 schools average tuition is
$17k/child and there are additional fees + huge endowments supporting the
schools.

Still think $3K/child is too expensive…actually you selling your children SHORT big-time! No wonder they can’t afford certified teacher or qualified administrative staff, huh?

But, here’s an amazing point…I can say we do Not spend $3K/child homeschooling…(well, maybe when we add overseas travel)…yet hubby and I are definitely exposing them to the best-of-private school opportunities NOT isolating nor assimilating our children from our American culture.

As mothers, our children have rights over us, such as food, clothing & education. To think school starts and ends the minute they go into a “school building” is simply an excuse NOT to do our jobs as mothers, especially here in America we Must participate heavily to be involved in our children’s lives and have an active role in assuring their healthy growth and development…leave it to our teachers both at public and private schools and you’ve lost your children completely!

Insha’Allah, I’ll share the difference between Schooling and Education next…and our goal should be to give our children an Education…NOT to send them to school.

My earlier post about Major Sins versus Minor Sins caused me to cut this section out and make this a seperate post, insha’allah (God willing) to get your attention.

I’m asking that you please share your children’s problems, issues, good news, recommendations, in the comments area below!

Let’s start discussing YOUR issues that You feel Need to be addressed in raising our children and being a Muslim Mom in America!

Alhumdulilah, my girls and I have TONS of resources to share; but it will be more useful to both of use when we share at them at the most appropriate time: a time when You–our devoted sister–needs it most!

Undoubtedly, it will take more time, energy and effort to share what’s really going on in our daily lives; but rather than search for the answers yourself, or worse “avoid the issue” and let your child “trail and error…and risk erring” let’s start sharing!

For example, just last night, a dear, dear sister told me she found a Victoria’s Secret catalog underneath her 8 year-old son’s bed 2 days ago. In shock, she starting saying “Aib” (Not-acceptable) and avoided the situation.

Her son’s smirk and silence may have been of embarrassment, fear, or something else–because the issue was not discussed…so, we starting talking about “What should we do?”, “Is it too late to bring it up?” “No Way!”

Are these the things You want to start discussing now?

I am not a scholar by any means; but I am prepared to share my insha’allah, educated opinions, thoughts, ideas, advice, experience, etc. I will seek scholarly advice when necessary…

After all, each child and each situation is unique, but within our Qur’an and Sunnah, we KNOW there’s an answer!

So, the more You participate in the dialog, the more You share your experience…the better we can devise our own special way to handle the delicate and beautiful issues our own children one at a time.

So, what’s on your mind? Please share below!

Khir, insha’allah.
Only good fortune be will with, God willing.

The short story is: I will share our long story here on this blog.

We’ll chronicle our journey to create an ummah (community) of Muslim children in which our Creator, Allah SWT (subhana watallah, May He be Glorified) will be pleased with as they are our entrance into jennah (heaven), insha’allah.

Raising children is our top priority as parents and more so for us mommies.

If we do it only for the sake of Allah (SWT) and in accordance with the sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) our rewards will be great!

I have three daughters, and welcome the challenges of raising them.

My husband and I homeschool them. We’re creating a bunch of computer-loving, techno-junkies who expect to have fun as we learn together, and strive to seek Allah’s (SWT) approval in all that we do.

Seeking knowledge is critical to being a Muslim, and we instilled this love to learn since the day they each were born.

As a best-selling author and lover of the written word, I, too am a researcher at heart (blame it on my biology-days). With an trained-engineer as a hubby, this blog is a long awaited online journal of tips, tools & resources for those who know us–and now, I’m widening our circle of brothers and sisters to the online world.

Insha’allah/God willing, you will come share any and all your feedback and comments. Most of all, I’m seeking your active involvement by sharing your helpful resources in Islam and raising our ummah together–one child at a time.

Your sister in Islam and fellow American Muslim Mom