Islamic Studies for Kids: What Should They Learn and When?

Alongside learning to read the Quran, children need a foundation in Islamic beliefs, worship and character. Here's a simple outline many families in the UK, USA and Europe find helpful.

Ages 4–6: love and basics

• Who Allah is; saying Bismillah and Alhamdulillah.
• Short duas for eating, sleeping and leaving the house.
• Stories of the prophets told simply.
• Short surahs by ear — see short surahs to memorize first.

Ages 7–9: pillars and prayer

• The five pillars of Islam (Sahih al-Bukhari 8) and the six articles of faith.
• Wudu and learning to pray — see teaching children to pray.
• The life of the Prophet ﷺ: birth, revelation, hijrah.
• Good manners with parents, siblings and neighbours.

Ages 10–12: understanding

• Meaning of the surahs they recite.
• Fasting in Ramadan — see fasting in Ramadan.
• The companions of the Prophet ﷺ.
• Honesty, kindness and dealing with anger — see controlling anger.

Teens: identity and questions

• Answering questions about faith with confidence.
• Islam and everyday life: friendships, social media, time.
• Charity and serving the community — see sadaqah.

Keep it connected to the Quran

Islamic studies works best alongside Quran lessons, so children link what they learn to what they recite. See adding Quran to your homeschool curriculum.

Book a free trial lesson.