Paradise Under Your Feet — Page 92
92 encourage their sons and daughters to play sports of their liking. Most schools offer some sort of after-school sports activities which children can participate in. Public schools across the nation provide family life classes, which include human sexuality. Such classes may begin as early as fifth grade. Parents should check the curriculum and the materials to make an informed decision on whether or not to allow their sons or daughters to attend these classes. Regardless of the decision, ensure that your children are given the Islamic teaching regarding chastity and the sanctity of marriage. Both parents should be able to talk to their children about what Islam says regarding dating and arranged marriage. It is best that children are made aware from an early age that Islamic teaching does not allow free mixing between the genders and that marriages are arranged. Muslim Identity, Peer Pressure and the Social Environment Peer pressure starts from a very young age but it is more difficult to stay away from it in middle schools. As mentioned earlier, the middle school years are the more difficult ones because the peer group becomes increasingly influential and various forms of peer pressure may be in operation. The peer group also becomes a source of information and social connections become very important. Therefore, it becomes crucial to be aware about the type of information and encouragement that our youth receive and, by extension, the kind of friends that they have. The best way to deal with peer pressure goes back again to keeping open communication with children and to empower them with confidence and knowledge. Children should be taught from an early age to be proud of who they are and particularly of their Muslim identity. It is also important not to put children in situations where they might be faced with making a choice between friendship and