If you are going to have to leave children behind while you make hajj, you want to allow plenty of time to prepare them for your absence. For some parents, making hajj is the first time they have had to be separated from their children. The two weeks or more that you are gone will seem like a long time for them and for you. In addition, they will miss sharing with you the holiday of Eid al-Adha.
They may be vaguely happy that you are doing something that will please Allah, but they are more likely to be acutely aware that you are going to be gone from them for what seems like a long time. Here are some items that will help them (and you) get prepared:
The Best Eid Ever by Asma Mobin-Uddin is a good book to help children prepare for their parents’ absence. It tells the story of a girl who is sad at Eid al Adha because her parents are making hajj. She discovers the blessings in giving to others and that even with her parents away, Allah can give her cause for happiness.
There are two books by Saniyasinain Khan. Tell Me About Hajj gives the history of hajj and My Fun Hajj Book, which has coloring pages, puzzles, word searches and other activities.
Take Me to the Kaba is a DVD that explains hajj to children. The DVD lets them see what you will see and where you will be as you fulfill the rites of pilgrimage.
The Hajj Game is a board game for the family to play that will help acquaint everyone with the details of making an acceptable hajj.
