Start with bismillah.

Ask: "Why do we do our work before we play?"

Watch the ABC tv story Do Your Work First, Then Play.

Now listen to the ayah together in the app, with the translation. Ask: "What does the ayah compare this life to?"

Each child keeps one wonder question, for example: "If life is like play, what really matters?" Younger children can draw theirs.

Find it in the mushaf: Surah Muhammad is surah 47. Find ayah 36. The key words la'ibun wa lahw mean play and amusement. Fun and games are good, but they end quickly. What lasts is faith and mindfulness of Allah. Allah does not ask us to give up everything; He gives us rewards far bigger than what we give.

Fact: How long does a typical game of football last?

Ages 5–8: Work then play. Finish one chore, then enjoy a game.

Ages 9–12: Time pie. Draw a pie chart of how you spend a day and colour the parts that last.

Finish with: "I found that a football game lasts ___."

Talk together:

• Why is this life compared to play?
• Which name of Allah does this remind you of?
• How can play be balanced with purpose?
• What do you do that will last?
• What would you like to ask about this ayah?

Make a small plan: "This week, I will finish my duties before playing."

• Duties first, then play.
• Try work then play.
• Share your time pie.
• Next time: the next ayah (47:37) talks about holding on too tightly. Explore it together!

Action: Finish your duties before playing.