There is a particular need to bring children to the mosque to help them become accustomed to it and to learn how to behave appropriately within its environment. If children are well-behaved and do not distract musalleen from their prayers by running around, shouting, or otherwise acting inappropriately, IANL encourages their attendance, provided that:

• They remain with their parent/guardian at all times.
• They are appropriately covered.
• They adhere to the etiquette of the mosque, including remaining quiet at all times.
• If children are too young or otherwise unable to adhere to the mosque’s etiquette, their attendance during congregational prayers is discouraged until they are mature enough to participate without disturbing others.
• IANL recognises that parents/guardians may sometimes have no choice but to bring their child(ren) to the mosque, such as when shopping and needing a place to pray. In these cases, it is the responsibility of the parent/guardian to stay with their children at all times to minimise any disruption to others and, if the child is sufficiently old, to teach them about mosque etiquette.

Please note that this guidance applies to both the men’s and women’s main prayer halls.