Your Complete Guide to Hosting a Sensory-Friendly Ramadan and Eid

Practical Tips for More Inclusive Muslim Celebrations

Imagine stepping into a bustling mosque during Ramadan. The hum of voices fills the air, lights are bright, and the community spirit is palpable. For many, this is a heartwarming experience. But for individuals with sensory sensitivities—like autistic children and adults, people who are neurodivergent, adults with PTSD, or those with sensory processing disorders—this environment can quickly become overwhelming. Bright lights, loud noises, and crowded spaces can make it difficult to engage fully in the spirituality and joy of Ramadan and Eid.

A sensory-friendly Ramadan ensures that everyone, regardless of their sensory needs, can participate comfortably. By creating inclusive environments, we foster community, accessibility, and belonging. This blog provides actionable tips for making Ramadan and Eid sensory-friendly, with insights, experience and recommendations from Uneeba Chutani, who at the time of these articles was an occupational therapy student at the University of Toronto and is now a practicing occupational therapist.

---

What Does Sensory-Friendly Mean?

A sensory-friendly environment is one designed to minimize sensory triggers and accommodate diverse needs. This includes reducing loud sounds, controlling lighting, offering quiet spaces, and promoting clear communication. Sensory-friendly practices help people with sensory sensitivities feel included and comfortable, enhancing their ability to engage in meaningful experiences.

---

Creating a Sensory-Friendly Ramadan

A Community’s Story: The Power of Small Changes

Here is a reported/shared experience: at a local mosque, the imam noticed a young boy who struggled to sit through Taraweeh prayers due to loud microphones and bright lights. After discussions with his family, the mosque introduced dimmable lights, lowered the speaker volume, and designated a quiet room for breaks. These small changes transformed the boy’s experience, allowing him to attend prayers regularly with his family.

You can create similar impacts in your community by following these steps:

Five Steps to a Sensory-Friendly Ramadan

1. Adjust Lighting and Sounds: Use dimmable lighting and reduce background noise in prayer halls and community spaces.
2. Offer Quiet Zones: Designate calm areas for individuals needing breaks during long prayers or gatherings.
3. Plan Inclusive Activities: Organize quieter Quran recitations and sensory-friendly meetings.
4. Provide Clear Schedules: Sharing event details in advance reduces uncertainty and stress.
5. Train Volunteers: Equip organizers with knowledge about sensory sensitivities and accommodations.

For more information, check out About Islam’s blog post recounting parents’ first-hand experiences of developing a more sensory-friendly Ramadan celebration.

Here’s a new section based on the content provided, optimized for readability and SEO, ready to be inserted into your blog:

---

Plan in Advance for a Sensory-Friendly Ramadan

Why Planning Ahead Matters

One essential step to creating a sensory-friendly Ramadan is preparing in advance. Ramadan brings significant changes to daily routines, from meal timings to sleep schedules, and these adjustments can be overwhelming for individuals with sensory sensitivities. By planning ahead, you can ease the transition and reduce stress for your family.

Adjusting to Unfamiliar Routines

During Ramadan, routines often shift dramatically. For example:

• Waking up early for Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) may feel unfamiliar to those not accustomed to early mornings.
• Going without snacks or meals throughout the day and waiting until Iftaar (sunset meal) can disrupt normal eating habits.
• Evening prayers like Taraweeh, late-night gatherings, and large family meals introduce additional changes.

These shifts can affect energy levels, sensory processing, and emotional regulation, especially for children and individuals with sensory needs.

Simple Steps for a Smooth Transition

To prepare your family for Ramadan:

1. Gradual Changes: Begin adjusting sleep, wake, and meal times a few days before Ramadan starts. Shifting by even 15-minute intervals can help everyone adapt to waking up for Suhoor and staying awake for Iftaar.
2. Practice New Routines: Introduce the foods and activities your family will experience during Ramadan. Encourage your child to taste new dishes or participate in short practice prayers to build familiarity.
3. Learn Together: Use pictures, videos, and books about Ramadan to teach your child what to expect. Engage in playful “Ramadan rehearsals” to explore upcoming activities in a fun, low-pressure way.

Incorporate Familiar Elements

Make the transition easier by including familiar items or routines. For instance, offer a favorite food at Suhoor or Iftaar to create a sense of comfort. Small, familiar touches can make new experiences feel less overwhelming.

---

Communicating Your Sensory-Friendly Plans

If you’re creating a sensory-friendly Ramadan, let friends and family know in advance. Whether you’re adjusting your home environment or adding sensory-friendly features to gatherings, a quick message or introduction can set expectations. Not only will this help others feel more comfortable, but it may also inspire them to make their celebrations more inclusive.

---

Create a Sensory-Friendly Quiet Room

Consider setting up a dedicated quiet space in your home. This room can offer a retreat from the noise and energy of Ramadan gatherings. Include items like:

• Comfortable seating or cushions
• Fidgets and sensory toys: Fidgets: More Than Just Child’s Play
• Weighted lap pads or blankets
• Books and other quiet activities

This space will provide a safe, calming area for anyone feeling overwhelmed.

---

Hosting a Sensory-Friendly Iftaar Party

Iftaar gatherings are a highlight of Ramadan, but they can also be overwhelming. Here are tips to make them sensory-friendly:

• Seating Arrangements: Arrange smaller, quieter seating areas for those who prefer less stimulation.
• Food Choices: Offer mild, non-spicy dishes and clearly label allergens and ingredients.
• Decorations: Opt for minimalistic decor with soft lighting to avoid visual overload.
• Communication: Notify guests about sensory-friendly options ahead of time.

---

Making Eid Sensory-Friendly

Personal Reflection: A Sensory-Friendly Eid Party

Imagine this at a sensory-friendly Eid party. Rreplace flashing lights with fairy lights, include noise-canceling headphones in the kids’ area, and create a quiet corner with cushions and books for anyone to enjoy.

Five Steps to a Sensory-Friendly Eid

1. Choose Sensory-Friendly Clothing: Recommend soft, breathable fabrics for traditional attire.
2. Control Noise Levels: Adjust speaker volumes for readings and gatherings.
3. Host Smaller Gatherings: Limit attendees to create a more relaxed environment.
4. Designate Quiet Areas: Set up spaces where individuals can take a sensory break.
5. Communicate Accommodations: Share details about sensory-friendly practices in advance.

Hosting a Sensory-Friendly Eid Party

• Venue Selection: Choose locations with ample space to reduce overcrowding.
• Decorations: Keep decor subtle and avoid loud or flashing elements.
• Activities: Incorporate quiet games and sensory-friendly activities for children and adults alike.

---

Managing Sensory Overload During Festivities

Sensory overload can occur at any time during Ramadan or Eid. Uneeba emphasizes the importance of proactive strategies:

• Provide noise-canceling headphones at mosques and community events.
• Allow flexible attendance to accommodate energy levels and sensitivities.
• Encourage open communication with event organizers for feedback and adjustments.

---

FAQs

1. How can I make a mosque more sensory-friendly during Ramadan?

• Use dimmable lights, lower microphone volumes, and designate quiet areas.

2. What are common sensory triggers during Ramadan and Eid?

• Bright lights, loud speakers, and crowded spaces are common triggers.

3. How can I include children with sensory sensitivities in Eid activities?

• Offer sensory-friendly games, provide noise-canceling headphones, and create a calm area.

4. Can sensory-friendly practices benefit everyone?

• Yes! These practices create a welcoming and comfortable environment for all attendees.

5. How can mosques create an inclusive environment for sensory-sensitive worshippers?

Mosques can foster inclusivity by implementing sensory-friendly practices, such as adjusting lighting, moderating sound levels, and offering quiet zones. To learn more about actionable steps for creating sensory-friendly mosques and prayers, visit How to Create Sensory-Friendly Mosques and Prayers.

---

Conclusion

By adopting sensory-friendly practices, you can ensure Ramadan and Eid are inclusive and joyful for everyone. Small changes, like adjusting lighting or offering quiet zones, can make a big difference. Join us in promoting sensory-friendly environments by exploring our resources and courses. Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive updates and tips to make your community more inclusive.

Showcase Sensory Friendly Solutions

At Sensory Friendly Solutions, we’re committed to helping communities create inclusive environments with our All Access Training.

• Sensory-Friendly 101 Course: Learn the fundamentals of sensory-friendly practices.
• Industry-Specific Courses: Explore tailored training for your organization or community.
• Guides and Checklists: Access over 20 resources designed to support sensory-friendly initiatives.

Watch a video from our founder, Christel Seeberger, to learn more about how our training can transform your events and spaces.

---