Start with bismillah.

Ask: "How do you make a new friend?"

Watch the CBC Kids video How to Make Friends.

Now listen to the ayah together in the app, with the translation. Ask: "What two things describe the companions in this ayah?"

Each child keeps one wonder question, for example: "Why is it easier to get along with people your own age?" Younger children can draw theirs.

Find it in the mushaf: Surah Al-Waqi'ah is surah 56. Find ayah 37. The key words 'uruban atraba mean loving and of equal age. In Jannah, there is warm love and nobody feels left out or too old or too young. Being a loving friend is something we can practise right now.

Fact: What helps children make new friends?

Ages 5–8: Friendship bracelet. Make a simple bracelet from wool or beads to give to a friend.

Ages 9–12: Friend tips. Write five tips for making a new pupil feel welcome.

Finish with: "I found that one way to make friends is ___."

Talk together:

• What makes a friendship loving?
• Which name of Allah does this remind you of?
• Who could use a friend right now?
• How can we include someone who is alone?
• What would you like to ask about this ayah?

Make a small plan: "This week, I will invite someone who is alone to join in."

• Invite someone to join in.
• Make a friendship bracelet.
• Share your friend tips.
• Next time: the next ayah (56:38) says all this is for the people of the right. Explore it together!

Action: Invite someone who is alone to join in.