After Eid comes a light deed with a great reward: fasting six days in Shawwal. The Prophet ﷺ said, “Whoever fasts Ramadan then follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if he fasted the whole year.” — Muslim.
How to do it
- Done after Eid al-Fitr (fasting on the 1st of Shawwal is not allowed).
- Six days, consecutive or separate, as long as it's within Shawwal.
- Intend a voluntary fast; its reward completes the Ramadan fast.
Involving your child
For children not yet obligated to fast, Shawwal is a fun continuation of Ramadan's practice.
- Offer, don't force. “Want to try a half-day fast again like in Ramadan?”
- Fast together. Kids are keener when parents fast the same day.
- Celebrate iftar. Make breaking the fast a warm, special moment.
See the dua for breaking fast, or explore the year-round sunnah fasting calendar.