Let Kids Be Kids: Why Religious School Should Wait Until After 18!

Every child is born curious, ready to explore the whole world. Their education should open doors for them, not close them early.

Right now, when a child is sent to a formal religious school at a very young age, it's like putting them in a room with only one window. They only get to see one view of the world. They miss out on learning about so many other things.

This is a problem because:

It limits their choices. A child doesn't know what they want to be yet. How can they decide their whole life's path at age 10 or 11 usually when they are admitted to a madarsa or any religious school?

It isolates them. They don't learn the same things as other children in their country. This can make it hard for them to connect with others or get a good job later.

It doesn't let them think for themselves. They are taught what to think before they learn how to think for themselves.

A Better Way: The "Doctor" Example

Think about how a child becomes a doctor.

No one forces a ten-year-old to study medicine. Instead, we let them go to a regular school. For 12 years, they learn all the basic subjects: math, science, languages, and social studies.

They play, they explore, and they learn about the world. Along the way, they might discover they love science and want to help people.

Then, at age 18, they choose to go to medical school. This is a special training that comes after their general education. They are old enough to make this big decision, and they have the basic knowledge to succeed.

Religious school should be the same.

Every child should first complete a normal school education until they are 18. They should learn all the general subjects that every student learns. This gives them the tools to succeed in any path they choose.

Then, at age 18, if they want to become a religious scholar, they can choose to join a madarsa or any religious institute or university.

This is a much stronger system because:

It's their own choice. They become scholars because they love it and choose it, not because it was the only path they were given.

They become better scholars. A person who has studied science and history can understand their religion in a deeper way and explain it better to others.

They can succeed anywhere. If they also want to be a teacher, a writer, or a community leader, they have the modern education to do it.

Conclusion: First, Freedom to Learn. Then, Freedom to Believe.

Let's give every child the gift of a full and open education. Let them learn about the world first.

Then, as educated young adults, they will be truly ready to choose their own path—whether that path leads to a hospital, an office, or a religious institute. A faith that is chosen freely by an educated mind is the strongest faith of all.

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