Start with bismillah.

Ask: "What do you think people wrote on before paper was invented?"

Watch the Fitzwilliam Museum video What is papyrus, and how is it made?

Now listen to the ayah together in the app, with the translation. Ask: "How is the writing described in this ayah?"

Each child keeps one wonder question, for example: "Why would it matter that the writing is open and not hidden?" Younger children can draw theirs.

Find it in the mushaf: Surah At-Tur is surah 52. Find ayah 3. The key words raqq manshur mean a fine sheet unrolled. Long ago, people wrote on papyrus made from reeds and on thin animal skin called parchment. Something spread open can be read by anyone.

Fact: What plant was papyrus made from, and which river did it grow beside?

Ages 5–8: Paper weave. Weave strips of paper over and under to make your own pretend papyrus.

Ages 9–12: Material test. Try writing on paper, card, leaf and cloth. Which holds the ink best?

Finish with: "I found that papyrus came from a plant growing by the ___."

Talk together:

• Why is open knowledge a gift?
• Which name of Allah does this remind you of?
• How did people keep the Quran safe on different materials?
• What do you like to read most?
• What would you like to ask about this ayah?

Make a small plan: "This week, I will read one page of a good book with someone at home."

• Weave a paper sheet.
• Run the ink test.
• Read a page together.
• Next time: the next ayah (52:4) swears by a House that is always visited. Explore it together!

Action: Read one page of a good book with someone at home.