Muslims hope to visit the holy lands of Makkah and Medina someday because of the spiritual significance of these places. If you are chanced to see these sacred places alone, you can’t imagine how tedious many parents find it. Visiting Makkah and Medina with your kids is a whole new experience due to their nature. Young ones need constant attention at home and in public. And it becomes even more challenging when you travel to a new place with your children. Even young ones above the age of five can throw tantrums or resort to crying. When you consider all these, you may not want to visit the holy cities with your little ones. However, there are a couple of useful tips to help you have a lovely time during your journey. Let’s examine some.

Make Them Identification Cards

It may sound funny, but identification cards are important. As a parent, you may try to stay alert, but there’s a probability of the children wandering off. Since these holy lands are often crowded, children can get lost easily. By making identification cards for your kids, you make them easy to find. On the identification cards, put their name, your name, your partner’s name, hotel name, phone number and email. With this information, anyone who spots a young one will be able to help your child find you. Every time you set out with the kids, ensure they wear these identification cards. Even at that, don’t be complacent. Pay attention to them all the time and make sure they stay close to you. The identification card should serve as a last resort. If you are out with multiple kids, get an identification card for each one. 

Prepare for the Heat

The temperature in Arab countries is usually very hot (the average temperature in winter is around 10-15 °C, while in the summer the average temperature varies from 30°C to 50°C). While you, as an adult, can bear the heat, children may find it challenging. Prepare their wardrobe for the temperature and buy accessories that help to reduce the effect of heat. For example, buy sunscreen, lotion or sunglasses. Get a bag pack that contains all these essentials and carry it with you. Also, don’t forget to buy bottled water.

Additionally, items to keep in a children’s backpack are mosquito repellent, extra clothes, baby wipes, and rash cream. These are essentiasl that help to keep your child comfortable. It is advisable to wear an article of light clothing that won’t induce heat or any form of discomfort. The cloth must cover the body adequately to reduce insect bites.

Be Vigilant

As much as you want to enjoy the spiritual atmosphere in the Holy Land, you also have the responsibility of looking after your young ones. First, be patient with them. They will most likely do things slowly. However, learn to treat them gently, so they don’t get cranky. For older ones, pick out a meeting point since they may want to explore unaccompanied. Slightly older children may not agree to wear an identity card that carries the information of the hotel and the number of their parents. Hence, decide on a meeting point or try to get directions to a landmark. During TAWAF and SAEE, couples can take turns looking after the kids. One thing that helps is to have a good discussion with the child or children before leaving your home. Discuss the importance of the visit and why they need to be obedient.  While this is effective for children that can comprehend, you will need to pay extra attention to younger ones. During the prayers, you may want to tie a wristband to yourself and the child. The prayer session is often the time children go missing the most. Don’t take chances; protect your child as necessary and avoid the stress of searching for your child or children. 

Carry Only What Is Necessary

For good reason it is best not to carry too much. When visiting the holy grounds, take only what you need and keep the rest in the hotel room. Small backpacks are sufficient. Little luggage allows you to focus on spiritual activities. Additionally, you focus more on the children and give them necessary attention. Depending on the age of the child, your visit may be an excellent time to teach simple spiritual lessons. Even little ones can learn something if you point to certain things and repeat it to them so they can remember later. It’s a fine way to inculcate spiritual truths and values at a young age.

Summary

In conclusion, pilgrimages are very important to every believer, in fact, we look forward to them. And considering the benefits, children may sometimes have to accompany their parents to also tap from the spiritual lessons and blessings. As you prepare for your trip, take a cue from all these tips and have a fulfilling experience.