How to Fast During Ramadan (for Kids)

Last Updated: March 10, 2021 References

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. For Muslim kids, it becomes a bit difficult for them to fast for 10-16 hours. However, getting into the habit of fasting is very important. This article is to help out kids to fast in Ramadan in a way that won't be difficult for them.

Part 1

Part 1 of 2:
Preparing for the Fast

1
Decide if you really want to fast. If you have not reached puberty (adolescence) yet, it is not obligatory for you to fast, but if you do, you'll be blessed by Allah for this deed and it will give you the experience for later on in life.^{[1]
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Research source} If it's your first fast, then decide and think hard, but if you've fasted before, then it won't be so hard.
2
Learn what breaks the fast and what doesn't. It's important to learn the rules and regulations of fasting so you're fully aware of what and what not to do.^{[2]
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Research source}
- Things that break your fast include:
  - Eating and drinking deliberately
  - Deliberately vomiting
  - Taking medication via mouth
- Things that do not break the fast include:
  - Accidentally eating or drinking (due to forgetfulness)
  - Having a shower or bath
  - Involuntarily vomiting
  - Nosebleeds
3
Have a rich, healthy 'suhoor' (meal before fast). It is very important that you take a meal before you fast, since this is the major requirement of your body, especially for kids. It should include good proteins, carbohydrates, necessary mineral and vitamins and lots of water (approximately 2-3 glasses).^{[3]
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Part 2

Part 2 of 2:
During the Fast

1
Limit exercise during the daytime. It's recommended to exercise before suhoor or an hour after iftar. During the day, don't stress your body, as it is already low on nutrition.^{[4]
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2
Read the Holy Quran and understand its meaning. If you know how to recite Quran, recite it regularly before and after suhoor, your salah, and iftar. It increases your devotion towards Islam, helps you to understand it better, and will surely increase your good deeds.
3
Perform your prayers. Offer Salah.^{[5]
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Research source} You should try to pray Fajr after suhoor, Zuhr and Asr during the day, and Maghrib and Isha after iftar to get rewards from Allah in this world and the hereafter. Also, try to pray optional prayers (Nawafil), especially the taraweeh prayer. Ask your dad or older brothers if you can come along with them.
4
Read Islamic books, such as the Qur'an. Ramadan is the best time to follow Islam in the most proper way, since Shaytaan (Satan) is captured in this month. Read and follow the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), especially those related to Ramadan, and try to follow his example.
5
Watch Islamic programs. These programs not only help to answer your questions related to Islam, but also are a good way to pass your time.
6
Help your mother to prepare suhoor or Iftar. This is a nice activity, but make sure not to divert yourself towards eating food during fast. This is also a great way to get involved, instead of sitting around doing nothing. You should also support your mother, as she is also fasting and has to prepare lots of dishes. Be grateful to her, and ask if you can help in any way.
7
Spend time with other Muslim friends. Try to perform as many good deeds as you can during this time. Go to the mosque with your friends, or attend lectures with your dad. Seeking knowledge is much more fun when you do it together.
8
Do anything to keep you occupied. Don't waste your time doing futile things, though. Time is precious. Try not to commit any sins; you've managed to fast well for the whole day. Don't ruin it in the last few minutes of your fast.
9
Have a delicious iftar! Don't forget to thank your mother or those who prepared food for you, and thank Allah for everything He has blessed you with!

Community Q&A

Question

This year is going to be my first time fasting and I'm nervous. What should I do to become confident with my decision?

Community Answer

Pray about it, read the Quran for strength and talk to friends and family who have fasted before for advice.
Question

What should children eat before the fast?

Community Answer

Children should have a proper meal containing all 4 nutrients and a lot of water, at least 2-3 glasses.
Question

What if my parents are against me fasting?

Ayyat Khurram

Community Answer

It is probably for a reason. Regardless, you can still talk to them in a mature way and tell them you are doing this to feel religious and good.
Question

My doctor prohibited me from fasting. What should I do?

Community Answer

Follow the advice of your doctor. Allah will understand.
Question

What if I have to go to school?

Community Answer

You can ask your teacher if you can go to the library during lunch. Most teachers are understanding of this, and if you run into trouble you can ask a counselor or the principal for assistance.
Question

As a child, how do I stop the hunger?

Community Answer

Try to make du'a to Allah so that He can stop you from being hungry. If you feel it but you continue to fast, then you might be rewarded. You can also try distracting yourself with activities or taking naps.
Question

My mum fasts, but my dad doesn't want me to, as he thinks it will impact my school work. What should I do?

Sobi

Top Answerer

You should explain to your dad that you want to get into the habit of fasting and benefit from it, but if he insists that it will affect your work, remember that fasting isn't obligatory for kids. Perhaps you could ask him if you could fast on the weekends, when there isn't school. This is a common compromise so that children don't get too tired during the school week.
Question

Is it important to do exercise while fasting?

Community Answer

You should do light exercise only, as heavy exercise can cause you to become dehydrated. You can do heavy exercise in your non-fasting hours (sunset-sunrise). While fasting, do some walking or light jogging; you can also do yoga and stretching.
Question

What is fasting?

Community Answer

Fasting often means you refrain from eating and drinking, but it can also mean you refrain from other things, such as sexual desires or certain activities. Essentially, you abstain from doing something.
Question

If I decided not to fast, can I still celebrate Eid el Fitr?

Community Answer

Yes, you can still celebrate Eid el Fitr. There is no prohibition against celebrating it if you don't fast.

Warnings

Don't exercise too hard, as it will make you tired and thirsty.

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If you feel as if you will faint, break the fast. Allah will reward you for taking care of your health.

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