Ramadan fasting is an opportunity for children to learn the principles of religion and discipline, but Islam did not impose fasting on children before puberty. However, they can gradually be trained in fasting in a way that suits their ages and physical abilities, taking into account their health and not endangering them.
When can the child fast?
Children can start fasting gradually from the age of 6-8 years for limited hours, such as fasting until noon or afternoon.
At the age of 10, they can try to fast a full day if they are in good health and do not feel exhausted.
It must be ensured that the child does not have health problems such as anemia or weight loss, because fasting may affect his growth.
Tips for healthy fasting for children:
1- Nutritional Suhoor meal: It should contain complex carbohydrates (such as brown bread, oats), proteins (such as eggs, milk), and healthy fats (like nuts) to maintain energy throughout the day.
2- Frequent fluid: The child must drink enough water between breakfast and suhoor to avoid dehydration.
3- Reducing sweets and fries: because it causes sudden high sugar and then decreases, which leads to fatigue and dizziness.
4- Monitoring signs of fatigue: If the child feels dizziness, headache, or extreme fatigue, he must be allowed to break the fast immediately.
5- Graduation in fasting: The child should not be forced to fully fast at once, but it can be encouraged to gradually increase the number of hours.
6- Quiet activities: It is preferable for the child to practice light activities during the day, such as reading or drawing, and avoiding games that require great effort.
7- Good example: seeing the parents fasting in a positive spirit that helps the child accept fasting with love.
When should fasting should be stopped?
If a child appears to be severe, a decrease in pressure, or a persistent headache, he should break the fast immediately. The primary goal of fasting in childhood is training and accustoming without harming the health of the child, so it should be gradual and under the supervision of parents.
