Growing in Faith, Sharing with Heart: Ramadan at Tunas Unggul Early Years

Ramadan is not just a month; it is a journey of the heart. It brings moments of calm, warmth, and reflection, guiding us to become better individuals. At Tunas Unggul Early Years, Ramadan is not only celebrated, but truly lived through meaningful experiences that touch both the heart and actions of our school community. It becomes a time for spiritual growth—a chance for teachers and children to learn, share, and strengthen their faith together.

Our Ramadan program begins with the teachers, as they are role models for the children. Each day, teachers perform Dhuhr prayer in congregation, creating a peaceful pause in the middle of a busy school day. Teachers also commit to daily Qur’an recitation, aiming to complete at least one khatam during the month. The spirit of giving is nurtured through daily charity (infak), which will be shared with children in need. In addition, teachers take part in a program called RESTING (Rehat Sejenak Sambil Sharing), where they reflect, share experiences, and recharge spiritually together.

For the children, Ramadan is experienced through both learning and action. Through the unit Where We Are in Place and Time, with the central idea “Ramadan is celebrated in different ways around the world,” children begin to understand that while traditions may differ, the essence of Ramadan remains the same worship and caring for others. They also take part in daily charity activities, learning that even small acts of giving can make a difference.

To support reflection, children use a simple Ramadan Journal to track their daily practices such as fasting, prayer, and acts of kindness. A meaningful prompt like “What good deed did I do today?” helps them build self-awareness and responsibility in a gentle and age-appropriate way.

As the highlight of our Ramadan journey, we hold a Ramadan Festival where children perform, play, and share with others. We invite children from local orphanages to join us, creating a joyful and meaningful experience of empathy and togetherness. In the end, Ramadan at Tunas Unggul Early Years is not just about programs, but about the values we nurture. Teachers grow in faith, children learn to care and appreciate differences, and our community moves together in kindness. Because true education is not only about knowledge, but also about heart and action.