Adab (آداب) is the Arabic word for Islamic manners and etiquette. In Islam, adab is not just about being polite — it is an act of worship. When a Muslim follows the Prophet's ﷺ example in everyday behaviour, they earn reward from Allah. Teaching children good adab from an early age helps them build confidence, respect, and a strong Islamic identity. This activity covers four areas every young Muslim encounters daily: eating, greeting, sneezing, and entering a home.
Before eating, Muslims say Bismillah (بسم الله) — "In the name of Allah". The Prophet ﷺ instructed us to eat with the right hand and to eat from what is directly in front of us. When the meal is over, we say Alhamdulillah to thank Allah for His provision. These simple acts turn an everyday meal into a mindful act of worship.
The Islamic greeting As-salamu alaykum (السلام عليكم) means "Peace be upon you". It is a Sunnah to initiate the salaam, and obligatory to reply with Wa alaykum as-salam. The Prophet ﷺ also said that smiling at your fellow Muslim is a form of charity (sadaqah). Teaching children to greet warmly builds community and love within the Muslim family.
When a Muslim sneezes, they cover their mouth and say Alhamdulillah. Anyone who hears it responds with Yarhamukallah (يرحمك الله — "May Allah have mercy on you"). The person who sneezed then replies Yahdikumullahu wa yuslihu balakum ("May Allah guide you"). This beautiful three-step exchange is a Prophetic Sunnah children can practise every day.
The Quran (Surah An-Nur 24:27) instructs Muslims to seek permission before entering any home other than their own. Children learn to knock, wait, and not peek inside. When entering, step in with the right foot first and say As-salamu alaykum. These manners protect privacy and spread peace — two core Islamic values.