Wa `alaykum as-salam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh, dear sister.
The questions you raise are very important, and you already have some positive solutions. I would like to add to your own suggestions.
It appears your daughter is very good at memorizing, because she quickly learned all the Christmas songs. One thing you can do is capitalize on her ability. Either you or your husband can begin to teach her short surahs. I think she will memorize them quickly. Don’t worry too much about teaching her the specific meaning yet. You can talk about the general meaning. For instance, if you are teaching her ‘Surat Al-Ikhlas’, she won’t be ready to discuss the meaning of { begets not nor is begotten} but she will understand the idea of worshipping Allah, the One God.
You can make her excited about the holidays, as you suggested. Decorating the house for `Eid, buying special presents and treats, wearing special clothes and spending the day doing exciting activities, are all important. You can also tell her, simply, the meaning of the holidays. We fast in Ramadan to show our obedience to Allah. We celebrate `Eid Al-Adha to remember the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (pbuh).
You can also make her excited about Islam throughout the year. Read or tell her stories about Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and the other prophets. Buy Islamic videos, children’s books and nasheed (Islamic songs). Encourage her to be in the room with you when you pray. Talk to her about why Muslims follow certain practices. (Four-year olds usually like to ask why, and I’m sure your daughter is no exception.) Teach her simple du`aa’, such as saying bismillah when we eat.
What you can offer her is an Islamic identity. Islamic schools can be good at promoting this. However, there are many steps you can take at home to help your daughter fee proud to be a Muslim. When she has this identity, she will be able to express that even in the midst of non-Islamic activities.
For your further guidance try the following link:
