Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir’s Inspiring Tale – Today’s Parent


In an increasingly diverse world, it has become crucial for young children to understand and appreciate different races, religions, and backgrounds. Recognizing the significance of this, children’s book author Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir sat down with us to chat about her brand new children’s book, Lion on the Inside: How One Girl Changed Basketball.

Lion on the Inside is a heartfelt narrative that chronicles Bilqis’ remarkable story as a young girl deeply passionate about basketball and her faith. From her early years to her journey through the sport, the book beautifully intertwines the importance of family, faith and her love for the game.

We had the opportunity to meet with Bilqis and gain insights into her inspirational journey and the messaging and purpose behind her upcoming book. When asked about her inspiration for writing the book in the first place, Bilqis humbly shared her initial hesitation as a writer.

“It was never a good time when I would just sit down and say, ‘Okay, let me write it,’ but co-author, Judith Henderson, found my cellphone number, called me and said, ‘I want to write a story about a woman basketball player, and I want it to be you’.

The book came from there,” says Bilqis. “I had no idea that writing a children’s book was so intricate and so tedious, but it’s so amazing to see the end result.”

A book that sparks change

At the heart of Lion on the Inside lies the importance of young children understanding different races and religions. As a mother of two, Bilqis has witnessed firsthand children’s inquisitive nature.

“I see the importance of being real, honest, and raw with our children; in a way they can understand.” Bilqis adds, “If we shelter them from different beliefs and people, what are we teaching them, really? You know, I’m a Black, Muslim woman. You don’t see me on the basketball court or on any playing fields often, so I just pray that this book allows people to love, to accept and to want to learn more from different people.”

Lion on the Inside aims to inspire young readers to become better citizens. Bilqis emphasizes the significance of breaking stereotypes and showcasing the diversity within her faith of Islam. Sharing a relatable story through the universal language of sports, Bilqis hopes to dispel misconceptions about Muslim women.

She adds, “I hope it sparks an urge for kids to stand up for their friends or to speak on anything that doesn’t make them feel comfortable, to have that togetherness in their communities, schools and classrooms.”

Fostering cultural awareness

“These are the things that we have to do as parents,” says Bilqis. “Take the time out and think about how we answer these questions, because you have to be intentional, but also really, really take the time to sit with our kids and learn with them. Through them and through my sons, I learned so much. Sit down, explore with them, and make sure that we’re engaging in the growth of their minds and their perceptions of this world.” Bilqis also highlights how parents can use books to teach their kids about race and religion.

In her own parenting journey, Bilqis shares her strategy of exposing her children to diverse environments and experiences. By taking them to cultural classes and community events, she enables her children to see the beauty of different backgrounds, languages and traditions. Bilqis believes that immersing oneself and their children in unfamiliar and uncomfortable spaces is essential for fostering inclusivity and learning about others.

Diversity at the heart of children’s literature

Inclusion and diversity are at the core of the CitizenKid Collection, and Lion on the Inside perfectly aligns with its mission. Bilqis noted, “This book will allow people to change their minds, change their hearts and break stereotypes that have been around for so long about women who look like me — and other women who don’t look like me, but share the same story or share the same trials and tribulations in life.”

Ultimately, Lion on the Inside carries a profound message for young readers. Through her journey in basketball and faith, Bilqis Abdul-Qaadir has crafted a tale that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on young readers. Lion on the Inside serves as a catalyst for fostering inclusivity, empathy and a desire to learn from and about others. As parents, let us seize the opportunity to introduce our children to this transformative book, enabling them to become better citizens and advocates for a more inclusive world.

Lion on the Inside: How One Girl Changed Basketball will be released this Fall.

Get parenting news, expert advice, info on secret sales, discounts and the best-ever products. Sign up for the Today’s Parent newsletter.



Source link

toysforgirls

Toys for Girls

toysforboys

Toys for Boys

craftsupplies

Craft Supplies

babywalker

Baby Walkers

best toothpaste tablets
Best Toothpaste Tablets 2024 – Today’s Parent
tick spray
Best Kid-Safe Spray for Ticks
GettyImages 1191574624
Can You Overfeed a Breastfed Baby?
og image default
7 Books About Kindness for Kids
TP x Belize 1
5 Reasons Why Belize Should Be Your Next Family Vacation Destination
14 Easter Basket Stuffers for Kids
Easter Basket Stuffers for Kids
1 4
14 Kid-Friendly Easter Recipes Ideas to Try
clek foonf
Best Toddler Car Seat 2024
Georgian surnames
90+ Common Georgian Surnames Or Last Names, With Meanings
Nicknames For Max 1
250+ Unusual Short Names Or Nicknames For Max
Vampire last names
200+ Famous Vampire Last Names And Meanings
Belgian surnames
150+ Common Belgian Last Names Or Surnames, With Meanings
Summer Fun Takes Flight with Viviana Malls Science Fiesta
Summer Fun Takes Flight with Viviana Mall’s Science Fiesta
15 Rebus Puzzles For Kids With Answers And Tips To Solve 2
15 Rebus Puzzles For Kids, With Answers And Tips To Solve
Child temperament is unique for each child
Traits, Types, And Tips To Manage
Sharks are the top predators in the ocean
50 Fun And Interesting Shark Facts For Kids To Know
TP x Tena
I peed my pants at the trampoline park
canadian parents drink less alcohol
Canadian parents are being told they drink way too much and REALLY?!
marie curie science roundup 750x422
Can role playing encourage girls in STEM?
best new period products feature
12 cool and sustainable period products to help manage your flow
maxresdefault
Expresso Show LIVE | Parenting Advice | 9 June 2021 | FULL SHOW
maxresdefault
Daily English Conversation in Parent Teacher Meeting.
maxresdefault
SMART PARENTING HACKS AND CRAFTS #shorts
maxresdefault
Parenting styles Psych 2015