Start with bismillah.

Ask: "How do scientists know how old something is?"

Watch the Scientific American video "How Does Radiocarbon Dating Work?".

Now listen to the ayah together in the app, with the translation. Ask: "What did they not expect?"

Each child keeps one wonder question, for example: "Why would someone think they won't be asked?" Younger children can draw theirs.

Find it in the mushaf: Surah An-Naba is surah 78. Find ayah 27. The key words la yarjuna hisaba mean they did not expect an account. Even old wood carries a record of its age. Our deeds are recorded too.

Fact: How does carbon dating tell how old something is?

Ages 5–8: Then and now. Look at an old photo of your family. How can you tell it's old?

Ages 9–12: Old things. Find out the age of the oldest wood or tree ever found.

Finish with: "I found that carbon dating works by ___."

Talk together:

• Why is it wise to remember that we'll be asked about our deeds?
• Which name of Allah does this remind you of?
• How does knowing about the account help us choose well?
• What would you love to show on that Day?
• What would you like to ask about this ayah?

Make a small plan: "This week, before bed, I will think about one good thing and one thing to improve from my day."

• Look at old family photos together.
• Tell someone how scientists date old things.
• Next time: the next ayah (78:28) says they called Allah's signs lies. Explore it together!

Action: Do your bedtime "account" each night.