Mosques are the institutions wherein we nurture our children to establish a connection with their Lord and practice worship. They are where we teach them the Qurʾān, Islamic rules, sunnah practices, and good manners. It is incumbent upon us to facilitate the means for them to attend these institutions. We should attract them by providing sweets, snacks, drinks, and gifts so that the mosque becomes beloved to them. We should be gentle with them when teaching them the etiquette of being in the mosque. Muslim reported on the authority of ‘Āishah, may God be pleased with her, that the Prophet, peace be upon him, said: “Whenever gentleness is added to something, it adorns it; and whenever it is withdrawn from something, it leaves it defective.” It is also important for those praying in the mosque to show love to the children present. Finally, it is recommended that mosque administrators facilitate the necessary means for both the attendance and education of children with the most gentle of manners. Being open-hearted, loving, and merciful is the best way we can deal with our young ones, and I fear that if we are too strict with our young ones and prevent from attending the mosque we will cause them to be averse to it and leave without returning again. Therefore, follow the Prophetic advice: “facilitate things to people and do not make things difficult; convey glad tidings to them and do not repulse them.”
