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Ramadan
is a special month for all Muslims. Everyone likes to share in the
spirit. Even young children want to fast because they see the adults
fasting and they want to feel included.
It
is important, however, to understand the role of children in Ramadan.
According to the sources of Hadith and Qur’an, children are not required
to fast until the age of puberty. (The actual age will vary from
person to person.) Before this time, children may practice fasting.
It might be considered a period of training.
The
degree of training is left to the discretion of the parents. However,
no child should be compelled or forced to fast. Children should
experience fasting in an easy and enjoyable way. For example, a
child might feel pride in fasting a few hours from breakfast to lunch or
from lunch until dinner. Or a child could experience the feeling of
joy and togetherness in eating the early morning Suhur once in awhile.
A number of full days of actual fasting could be scheduled for those
children nearing the age of puberty.
The
most important thing to remember is that fasting should not be a hardship.
Until they are actually obligated by God to fast, fasting should not be
made obligatory on young children.
As
a school, the normal routine will continue as much as possible during
Ramadan. Teachers will maintain the pace of curriculum according to
their yearly plan. When possible, more difficult projects may be
postponed until after Ramadan. Parents are encouraged to accommodate
their children’s academic, as well as their spiritual needs.
(Statement
officially authorized by Dr. Maher Hathout)
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