The best first duas for children are short, everyday ones: before eating, after waking, before sleeping, leaving home, entering the bathroom, travelling, and duas for parents and knowledge. Teach one dua a week and use it at the right moment until it becomes a habit.
Everyday duas
| When | Dua (transliteration) | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Before eating | Bismillah | In the name of Allah |
| After eating | Alhamdulillah | All praise is for Allah |
| Before sleeping | Bismika Allahumma amutu wa ahya | In Your name, O Allah, I die and I live |
| After waking | Alhamdu lillahil-ladhi ahyana ba’da ma amatana wa ilayhin-nushur | Praise be to Allah who gave us life after death, and to Him is the return |
| Leaving home | Bismillah, tawakkaltu ‘ala Allah, wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billah | In the name of Allah, I trust in Allah; there is no power or strength except with Allah |
| Entering the bathroom | Allahumma inni a’udhu bika minal khubuthi wal khaba’ith | O Allah, I seek refuge in You from evil |
Duas from the Quran
- For knowledge: Rabbi zidni ‘ilma, “My Lord, increase me in knowledge” (Ta-Ha 20:114).
- For parents: Rabbir-hamhuma kama rabbayani saghira, “My Lord, have mercy on them as they raised me when I was small” (Al-Isra 17:24).
- For travel: Subhanal-ladhi sakhkhara lana hadha wa ma kunna lahu muqrinin, wa inna ila Rabbina la-munqalibun (Az-Zukhruf 43:13–14).
Tips for teaching duas
- Say the dua together at the right moment, every time.
- Explain the meaning in simple words.
- Use a chart on the fridge and add a sticker for each new dua.
Our Islamic Studies for kids covers daily duas, Salah and Seerah. See also how to teach kids Salah.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which dua should a child learn first?
Bismillah before eating, then the duas for sleeping and waking.
How can kids memorize duas easily?
Say each dua together at the right moment every day and explain its meaning simply.
What is a good dua for knowledge?
Rabbi zidni 'ilma, "My Lord, increase me in knowledge" (Quran 20:114).
