16 Jul 2026

Living The Message: Surah Kafiroon for Young Teens (4)

Learning Objective:

Help young teens reflect on how the guidance of the Qur’an relates to their everyday lives using surahs they are already familiar with.

OPENING QUESTION

Have you ever felt pressure to act differently just so people would accept you?

REFLECTION SCENARIOS Do not yet introduce the surah and emphasise there is no right/wrong answer. Encourage honest reflection without guiding to any lessons yet.

1. Siddiqa's friends are planning to go to a Taylor Swift concert. She knows it doesn't fit with her beliefs. "Are you serious? Why wouldn't you come?"

She doesn't want to disappoint her friends, but she also doesn't want to compromise her values. - Why does Siddiqa feel torn? - What could she do? - Can you disagree with friends and still remain friends? 2. Sara is on the school camping trip and feels unsure about praying while she is away. - What might she be worried about? - What would make it easier for her to pray? 3. Masuma’s school is planning an Eid celebration. Someone suggests having an Eid tree because, "Christmas trees make celebrations feel more festive." - Why might people feel the need to copy others? - Is copying another tradition necessary?

LESSON

Before revealing the surah, display and read the translation only, then ask if anyone recognises which surah it is.

Allows the group to first reflect on the message themselves.

Which words stand out? What message is being repeated? How does the surah sound? Angry, confident, calm, defensive?

KEY QUESTION: What do I truly stand for?

1. What is Allah teaching us? "I do not worship what you worship." (109:2) Surah al-Kāfirūn is clear, firm and uncompromising. The leaders of Quraysh wanted the Prophet to meet them halfway. They suggested a compromise: worship Allah some of the time and their idols the rest of the time. Allah revealed this surah to make one thing absolutely clear: there can be no compromise in worship. The Prophet was not rude, argumentative or disrespectful. He simply knew who he was, what he believed and remained firm. Surah al-Kāfirūn teaches that confidence comes from knowing your identity.

When you know what you believe, you do not need to change your values to gain acceptance. The repeated verses emphasise that some truths are too important to blur or water down, even when there is pressure to fit in. Allah teaches us to

- know who are you

- know what you believe

- stay firm (no need to make excuses, speak the truth)

- stay kind

2. Why does it matter? Every human being wants to belong.

Surah al-Kāfirūn teaches us the difference between belonging and conforming. Belonging means being accepted for who you are. Conforming means changing who you are in order to be accepted.

Every day we face pressures to fit in, follow trends, hide our beliefs or avoid standing out. Sometimes remaining true to our values can feel lonely. But real confidence does not come from everyone approving of us. It comes from knowing that we are pleasing Allah.

When our identity is rooted in our faith, we are able to respect other people without copying everything they do. 3. What might change if I lived this message seriously? Revisit earlier scenarios with new understanding from the surah and ask ""If this person truly lived the message of Surah al-Kāfirūn, what might they think or do differently?"

AFFIRMATIONS Invite the group to create their own affirmations from the lesson.

My faith is not something I compromise to fit in. I can respect others without copying them. I choose Allah's approval over people's approval. I can say no with kindness and confidence. I stand firm in what I believe.

My identity comes from my faith.

FAMILY REFLECTION FOR THE WEEK Where do I feel pressure to change who I am in order to fit in? How can I remain kind while staying true to my beliefs?

Print Lesson Plan: Living The Message: Surah Kafiroon for Young Teens (4)

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Living The Message: Surah Nas for Young Teens (2)

Learning Objective:
Help young teens reflect on how the guidance of the Qur’an relates to their everyday lives using surahs they are already familiar with.

RECAP LESSON SURAH IKHLAS

Last session we learnt that Allah is Al-Aḥad and As-Ṣamad, the One our lives should revolve around and the One we can truly depend on. But if we know that, why do we still sometimes make the wrong choices?

OPENING QUESTION

Have you ever done something you knew you shouldn't do, even though part of you knew it was wrong? Have you ever wanted to do something good, but something seemed to hold you back?

REFLECTION SCENARIOS

Do not yet introduce the surah and emphasise there is no right/wrong answer. Encourage honest reflection without guiding to any lessons yet.

1. Last week Siddiqa didn't wake up for Fajr because of her exams. Now the exams are over, but as she reaches to set her alarm, she thinks, "What's the point? I already missed it all week." - What thoughts might be entering Siddiqa's mind? - Where do you think those thoughts could lead if she believes them? 2. Asiya looks around her classroom. One girl is prettier, another is better at sports, another the most popular. - What thoughts might be entering Asiya's mind? - Are those thoughts facts or feelings? - What could happen if she keeps feeding them? 3. Masuma notices her mum working hard in the kitchen while guests are arriving. A thought pops into her mind,"I should go and help." Instead, she stays where she is. - What might have stopped Masuma?

- Why do you think Masuma didn't act on the good thought?

Allah is our Creator, He knows what we will struggle with and what challenges we will face. He has given us all the guidance we need to navigate these scenarios in the Quran.

LESSON

Before revealing the surah, display and read the translation only, then ask if anyone recognises which surah it is.

Allow the group to first reflect on the message themselves.

What do you think Surah An-Nas is telling us Who do you think the ‘whisperer’ is What do you think the "whisperer" is trying to achieve? Can the whisperer force us to do anything? What is Allah asking us to do and why?

KEY QUESTION: How can I recognise and respond to negative whispers?

1. What is Allah teaching us?

Surah An-Nas reveals that not every challenge is visible. Some of the hardest battles happen inside our hearts and minds.

Allah teaches us that there are whispers that quietly plants thoughts of doubt, comparison, excuses, hopelessness, distraction and temptation to pull us away from Allah. These can come from Shaytan or even the people around you.

Surah Nas reminds us that you don’t have to fight these whispers on your own. Allah tells us to seek refuge in Him, the Lord, King and God of mankind. These three names remind us no matter how many voices compete for our attention, Allah alone has complete power and is our true Protector.

2. Why does it matter?

Feeling tempted, making excuses or experiencing difficult thoughts does not mean you are bad, it means you are human. A thought entering your mind is not the same as choosing it. The danger begins when we listen to it and follow it.

Not every thought deserves your trust. Not every impulse deserves action.

Shaytan does not have the power to make you do anything. Instead, he whispers thoughts that make wrong things look appealing and right things seem unimportant or boring. These whispers aren't only about sins; they can also affect our character, kindness, responsibility and the way we treat others.

Surah An-Nas teaches us that when we seek protection of Allah, He gives us the strength to resist these whispers and choose what is right.

Remembering Allah is like putting on noise-cancelling headphones against the whispers. The more we remember Allah, the weaker those whispers become.

The believer's strength is not in never hearing whispers. It is in recognising them, turning back to Allah and choosing not to follow them.

3. What might change if I lived this message seriously?

When a difficult or negative thought enters my mind, I would not immediately believe it or act on it. Instead I would:

1. Notice it: Is it a fact or a feeling?

2. Question it: Is this a thought that will help me be a better person?

3. Seek refuge in Allah: Recite an Nas or Audhubillah

4. Choose my response: Do the right thing

I would start to become more aware of the whispers and I would turn back to Allah before they grow stronger.

My focus would shift from reacting automatically to responding intentionally, choosing what brings me closer to Allah rather than simply following my first thought.

Revisit earlier scenarios with new understanding from the surah and ask "If this person truly lived the message of this surah, what might they think/do differently?

AFFIRMATIONS

Invite the group to create their own affirmations from the lesson.

I do not have to accept every thought I hear. I pause before I respond I seek refuge in Allah before I act/when I feel… I return to Allah before negative thoughts get stronger Allah is my protection from inner confusion. Allah understands the struggles inside my heart. I choose thoughts and actions that bring me closer to Allah.

FAMILY REFLECTION FOR THE WEEK

When did you notice a whisper this week that was pulling you away from Allah, and and how did you choose to respond?

Print Lesson Plan: Living the Message: Surah Nas for Young Teens (2)

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Living The Message: Surah Ikhlas for Young Teens (1)

Learning Objective: Help young teens reflect on how the guidance of the Qur’an relates to their everyday lives using surah they are already familiar with.

OPENING QUESTION What kind of things do you spend your time thinking about? Are there any things that distract you from what you should be doing? What kind of things do you worry/stress about? Where do you usually go for reassurance? REFLECTION SCENARIOS Do not yet introduce the surah and emphasise there is no right/wrong answer. Encourage honest reflection without guiding to any lessons yet. 1. At the moment it's exam season and that's all Siddiqa can think about. Her day revolves around studying and doing as well as she can. She normally sets her alarm for Fajr but this week decides she needs the extra sleep instead.

- What has become the centre of Siddiqa's life?

- Can something good become too important?

2. Sara has just joined a new school. She notices that lots of the girls have Labubu charms on their bags. She doesn't even think they're cute, but decides to get one anyway.

- Why might Sara have done that?

- What was she hoping would happen?

3. Asiya finds out she hasn't been invited to an iftar that all her friends are attending.

- How do you think she feels?

- Where do you think she might turn for comfort?

Allah is our Creator, He knows what we will struggle with and what challenges we will face. He has given us all the guidance we need to navigate these scenarios in the Quran.

LESSON

Before revealing the surah, display and read the translation only, then ask if anyone recognises which surah it is.

This is Surah Ikhlas, one we recite throughout our day in salaa. Knowing the words is different from understanding the message.

Allows the group to first reflect on the message themselves.

What do you think this surah is directing your attention towards? What do you think it means that Allah is One? What does Allah As Samad, the Eternal Refuge mean to you?

KEY QUESTION: What should my life revolve around?

1. What is Allah teaching us? Allah is teaching us that He is the only ONE our life should revolve around. Family, friends, school, sports all have a time and place but none of them should become the centre of our lives. In every part of our day, Allah Al Ahad has to take priority. We think and behave in the way Al Ahad has taught us to. Allah is teaching us that He is As Samad, the one who is secure and satisfies all our needs To be completely reliable requires knowing fully, caring fully, is able fully. Allah As Samad is the only one who will always be a source of comfort and security and meet all your needs. Allah As Samad is the Only One we can always turn to and depend on.

2. Why does it matter? If I know Allah is Al-Aḥad: I make Allah the centre of my life and my highest priority. I don't need to follow the crowd or seek everyone's approval. I choose what pleases Allah above what pleases other people. If I know Allah is Aṣ-Ṣamad: I turn to Allah first when I am worried or in need. I don't lose hope when people disappoint or leave me out. I remember that my worth comes from Allah, not from likes, grades or popularity. 3. What might change if I lived this message seriously? Revisit earlier scenarios with new understanding from the surah and ask "If this person truly lived the message of this surah, what might they think/do differently? AFFIRMATIONS Ask the group to create and write their own sentence that captures which lesson from the surah they most want to remember this week. They can share with the group if others want to add to their own. Allah is the One at the centre of my life.

I choose what pleases Allah above everything else.

I turn to Allah because He is enough for me.

My worth comes from Allah, not from other people's opinions.

Allah is always with me and I can always rely on Him. FAMILY REFLECTION FOR THE WEEK A question to take home. When during your day did remembering that Allah is Al-Ahad (the One who deserves to be at the centre of your life) or As-Samad (the One you can always depend upon) influence your choices, actions, or attitude? How did that reminder affect the way you behaved?

Print Lesson Plan: Living The Message: Surah Ikhlas for Young Teens (1)

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Living The Message: Quran Reflection for Teens

Learning Objective:

- Help young teens reflect on how the guidance of the Qur’an relates to their everyday lives.

Introduction:

We’re not trying to memorise lots of information or learn facts for a test. We’re going to explore what it actually looks like to live the message of the Qur’an in everyday life.

Every chapter was revealed to change people, not just inform them.

Each week we’ll take one key message from a Juz Amma surah and ask:

• What is Allah teaching us?

• Why does it matter?

• What might change if I took this message seriously?

The goal isn’t simply to know more. It’s to leave thinking differently, seeing differently, or doing something differently. Because the Quran isn't just a book to syudy but a message to live.

Lessons:

The lessons are designed as a journey, with each session building on the previous one. Completing the sessions in order will help students see how the Qur'anic messages connect and develop over time.

Surah Ikhlas: What should my life revolve around?

Surah Nas: How can I recognise and respond to negative whispers?

Surah Falaq: What should I seek protection from?

Surah Kafiroon: What do I truly stand for?

Surah Asr: How should my beliefs shape the way I live?

Surah Teen: Who am I becoming through my choices?

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What's Happening in Iran?

Learning Objectives:

- Understand current events in Iran

- Identify key figures and their roles
- Explore historical context

- Develop critical thinking about media

- Recognize principles of justice and morality

- Connect faith and action

- Encourage empathy and ethical response

On Saturday 28th Feb ‘26, America and Israel started a war against Iran. They have bombed a primary school, many hospitals and civilian buildings. They also assassinated (targeted and killed) Ayatullah Khamenei, the Supreme Leader of Iran.

Why is Ayatullah Khamenei important?

He was the most important leader in Iran. Iran’s system of government is called a theocracy, which means the laws of the country are based on religion. In Iran, the laws are based on Shia Islamic beliefs.

Just as the Prophet Muhammad (saww) was a religious leader, a spiritual guide, a military commander and political figure, The Supreme Leader of Iran follows this example, and is also given all these important roles!

Why is Iran being targeted?

To answer this question, it’s important to look at history and understand some facts.

Download the complete guide to understand the context behind the headlines, why it matters and what we can do.

Download the complete guide

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Ramadhan with the Qur’an: A Curated Guide by Age

A curated selection of our most loved activities and resources, to support learners at every stage in building a meaningful relationship with the Qur’an throughout the month.

Ages 0–5 | Experiencing Ramadan

50 Things To Do in the Month of Ramadhan

Ages 5–7 | First Steps with the Qur’an

Quranic Alphabet Series

Qur’anic Alphabet Series introduces young learners to the Arabic letters and Qur’anic words through playful, hands-on experiences.

Ages 7–11 | Engaging with the Qur’an

30 Days With The Qur'an

Activities and lessons to fill the month with meaning, blessings and fun!

30 Days of Quranic Crafts

Hands-on crafts that bring Qur’anic verses and values to life through meaningful, practical activities.

30 Day Quran Calendars

Use as part of a 30 day Ramadhan calendar to learn about the Quran throughout the month.

Ages 11+ | Reflection & Values

Islamic Values Quran Journal

The Islamic Values Journal introduces children to the process of independently reflecting and building a personal relationship with the Quran.

Quranic Highlights

Qur’anic Highlights invites learners to spend a few focused minutes each day with selected surahs, engaging with the Qur’an through reflection, annotation, and growing familiarity with Qur’anic language.

Ages 13+ | Insight & Personal Meaning

Quranic Snapshots Ramadhan Video Series

Qur’anic Snapshots invites daily reflection on a single āyah through short, illustrated videos that support personal Qur’an journalling. Includes a corresponding journalling prompt calendar.

One Quranic Minute: 60 second reminders

One Quranic Minute sparks reflection and practical action, delivering a burst of motivation.

Ages 16+ | Structured Qur’an Study

Juz Highlights: Insights into 100+ verses of the Holy Quran

Juz Highlights is a course designed for older teens and adults seeking structured engagement with the Qur’an with ten 30-minute on-demand sessions that guide you through over 100 meaningful Qur’anic verses with clarity, context, and practical reflection.

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Surah Fatiha: A Guided Walk Through

A 30 minute session to appreciate and introduce Surah Fatiha, the greatest surah of the Holy Quran. Includes video presentation, cross reference verses, quiz and takeaways.

Key Questions Explored:

What makes this surah so important?
Who is Allah? What is my relationship with my Lord?
What is the power of the phrase Alhamdulilah?
How does understanding this surah help me live with purpose?
What is the path I want to take and how will I know the way?
Perfect for personal reflection or family study, this session lays a strong foundation for your journey through the Quran with Juz Highlights.
Why do we worship Him?

"I feel like you took our hands and gently walked us through each ayat so beautifully."

"‘The Mother of the Book’ - I loved that part Great lecture - loved all the modern examples. The way you explained ‘alhamdullilah’, especially the sneezing, Palestine 🇵🇸 and tasbee was so beautiful mashallah. I loved your explanation of ‘Rab’."

I love the follow through with the questions and affirmations which just brings it all together and helps us understand the Surah thoroughly.

"Simple but so deep at the same time! This is definitely going to add some mindfulness to my prayers! "

""thought provoking, concise, informative…it’s hard to find the words but it truly touched my soul."

"I loved the personal coach analogy! Your perspective on how to approach Surah al Fatiha was refreshing and thought provoking."

Explore the greatest surah of the Holy Qur’an
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Quran Journalling Illustrated Inspiration

These beautiful pages by a sister in the community were shared by QFatima on their Instagram page illustrating verses in a vibrant and meaningful way to help engage with the Quran more deeply.