A common concern for many Muslim parents is how to help their children build a strong, lasting relationship with the Quran. For most, the goal is not limited to memorization. It is about raising children who love the Quran, live by its teachings, and carry its light into every aspect of their lives. We know that a child who grows up connected to the Quran is more likely to remain grounded in their faith, especially in today’s turbulent world. The Quran offers guidance for every stage of life, serving as a roadmap to help us fulfill our purpose and reach our ultimate destination: Paradise. And beyond the spiritual and emotional benefits, memorizing the Book of Allah comes with immense rewards that are multiplied when it is done with sincere intention and consistency.
There are many ways to engage with the Quran, be it reading, memorizing, reflecting, or learning tajweed, and all of them require commitment. This is true for both children and adults. If we want our children to attach their hearts to the Quran, then we must lead by example. When the Quran becomes a consistent part of family life, it transforms from a task into a shared source of blessing and growth. But before we dive into how to build that consistency, it is important to reflect on our intentions. Why do we want our children to learn the Quran? What do we hope they gain?
One of my beloved Quran teachers begins every course with this same question: Why are you here? In our first few sessions, students offered many responses; some wanted to improve their tajweed, others aimed to memorize, and a few hoped to correct their pronunciation. After each answer, the Sheikh would gently reply, “If that is your only reason for being here, I am afraid you may not continue.” This confused many of us at first. But then he shared something that has stayed with me ever since. He said, “The number one reason we should be here is to sit among the people of the Quran.” In other words, it is not just about the goals we set, but the environment we choose and the consistency with which we show up that makes the difference.
Then, the Sheikh quoted a powerful hadith that beautifully illustrated his point:
“There is no group of people that assemble in one of the Houses of Allah to recite the Book of Allah, learning and teaching it, except that tranquility will descend upon them, mercy will engulf them, angels will surround them, and Allah will make mention of them to those (the angels) in His proximity.” (Muslim, 2699)
This hadith reminds us that studying the Quran is not about mere personal achievement. It is a profoundly spiritual action that draws divine mercy, angelic presence, and the pleasure of Allah. When we intend to be among Ahl al-Quran, the people of the Quran, then our efforts become more than academic. They become pathways to spiritual growth.
Three Essential Approaches to Engaging with the Quran
Once we have clarified our intention and made consistency our goal, the next step is to decide how we will engage with the Quran on a regular basis. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and the path may look different for each family member. However, the most effective learning happens when we combine three essential methods: reading in Arabic, understanding the meaning, and memorizing with tajweed.
1. Reading the Quran in Arabic
“Indeed, We have sent it down as an Arabic Quran so that you may understand.” (Quran 12:2)
The Quran was revealed in Arabic for a reason. Ibn Kathir explained:
“The Arabic language is the most eloquent, plain, deep, and expressive of the meanings that might arise in one's mind. Therefore, the most honorable Book was revealed in the most honorable language, to the most honorable Prophet and Messenger, delivered by the most honorable angel, in the most honorable land on earth, and its revelation started during the most honorable month of the year, Ramadan. Therefore, the Qur'an is perfect in every respect.”
Reading the Quran in its original language helps preserve its sacred sound, rhythm, and meaning. Even if Arabic is not spoken at home, parents and children can work together to improve their fluency gradually. The key is to make it a daily habit, even if it is just one verse a day.
2. Studying a Translation of the Meanings
Allah created humanity into nations and tribes, speaking many languages, so that we might understand and appreciate one another. Even the Prophets were sent with the language of their people. As Allah says:
“We never sent any messenger except in the language of his people, to make things clear for them. God leads astray whom He wills, and guides whom He wills. He is the Mighty, the Wise.” (Quran, 14:4)
While Arabic unites the global Muslim community, understanding the message of the Quran in our language is crucial, especially for children and new learners. Suppose someone has not yet studied Arabic in depth. In that case, a side-by-side translation can be an excellent resource, allowing the reader to grasp the meaning and gradually become familiar with the Arabic script.
3. Memorizing the Quran with Tajweed
Memorizing the Quran is a noble goal, and Allah encourages us with the repeated reminder:
“And We have certainly made the Quran easy for remembrance—so is there anyone who will be mindful?” (Quran, 54:17)
Many families aspire for their children to become huffaz or preservers of the Quran who commit the entire book to memory. While this is a noble and rewarding goal, it is not meant for everyone, and it should never be forced. For some, memorizing a few short chapters may be the most realistic and meaningful starting point, and for others, it may be the furthest they will go. Both are valuable and laudable. What truly matters is not how much is memorized, but how consistently one engages with the Quran. Allah says:
“Recite what is revealed to you of the Scripture and establish prayer. Indeed, prayer prevents immorality and wrongdoing. And the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows what you do.” (Quran, 29:45)
As Ibn Kathir noted, this verse commands believers to recite and teach the Quran, highlighting the importance of learning both for personal benefit and to share it with others. Tajweed, or correct pronunciation and rhythm, is also part of honoring the Quran, and it can be introduced gradually with patience and encouragement.
No matter what your Quran learning goals are, remember that our intention is to be among the people of the Quran. Those are the ones about whom the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him said:
“The best of you are those who learn the Quran and teach it.” (Sahih Bukhari, 5027)
To reach that status, we must be consistent. Even reading one verse a day can be transformative. When we return to the Quran regularly, even in the smallest ways, we model a lifelong relationship with the Divine word for our children.
Bio:
Wendy Díaz is a Puerto Rican Muslim writer, award-winning poet, translator, former educator, and mother of six (ages ranging from toddler to teen). She is the co-founder of Hablamos Islam, a non-profit organization that produces educational resources about Islam in Spanish (hablamosislam.org). She has written, illustrated, and published over a dozen children’s books and currently lives with her family in Maryland. Follow Wendy Díaz on social media @authorwendydiaz and @hablamosislam.
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