Traditions and Gifts for the Birth of a Muslim Child

The birth of a child is a blessing and an occasion for thanksgiving within the Muslim home. Like other religions and cultures, the traditions in a Muslim home differ according to the background of the parents. Fortunately, it is simple to find gifts that will please both parents and the newborn if you choose items that are appropriate for children.

  1. Toys

    • Age-appropriate toys are perfect gifts for a newborn. Rattles are always a good choice, as are rubber animals that can float in the bath. Be sure to follow safety rules by choosing toys that do not have detachable parts and that cannot be swallowed.

    Books

    • Encourage parents to begin to read to their baby by giving a book to the newborn child. The book can be composed of colorful pictures or it can have pages that make sounds or play music. Some books for newborns are made from waterproof material, others are made of soft and flexible fabric, so that there is no need to worry about ripped pages.

    Clothes

    • Newborns grow so quickly, that parents are happy to receive clothing in sizes that the baby can grow into. For girls, a dress with matching leggings or tights is appropriate, even in the most conservative of Muslim homes. Boys can be dressed in a shirt and pants.

    Baby Accessories

    • Bibs and blankets are welcome in any newborn's home. Choose a bib with good material and a cute message or picture. Colorful blankets, hooded towels or play mats are acceptable accessories for newborns.

    Meeting the Baby

    • In some Muslim traditions, humility is important. Thus, showering the child with too many compliments could be a source of anxiety for the family. In most Muslim families, when meeting the baby, you may say, "Mash'Allah." Those words express your amazement at how Allah (God) has blessed the family. You may also say, "Mabrook," a way to express congratulations.

    • Respiratory problems in premature infants may be the result of their inability to produce enough surfactant. Surfactant is a substance that coats the alveoli (tiny air sacs) in the lungs. It helps to:* Reduce surface tension: This prevents the alveol
    • Theres nothing special or different about a baby boy born on a Friday! Its just like any other day of the week. Heres why:* Days of the week are cyclical: They dont hold any special significance for a babys future or personality. * Its just a coin
    • Newborn babies, especially premature infants, arent born beautiful and unscathed. Bruising and swelling are common features on newborns. Puffy and swollen eyes are also a common concern of premie parents. Medication Doctors often pu