The Ruling on Fasting for a Young Child

Question:
We continue with the questions specific to this blessed, honorable month. One of the questions is from a sister who says: My young child insists on fasting Ramadan, even though fasting harms him due to his young age and poor health. Should I use force with him to make him break his fast?

Answer:
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, Lord of the worlds. May Allah send prayers and blessings upon our Prophet Muhammad, and upon his family and all his Companions. As for what follows, it is the Sunnah (recommended practice) that a child who can distinguish right from wrong, meaning one who has reached the age of seven, is ordered to fast so that he may practice it, so that it becomes a voluntary act for him, and so that his guardian receives reward if the child is able to do so. This is as the righteous Salaf (earliest generations) used to fast their children. If they asked for food or drink, they would distract them by giving them toys to play with until the sun set, in order to train them in worship. Similarly, they are ordered to pray at the age of seven, as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: Likewise, they are ordered to fast. However, if this child is unable to fast due to illness or weakness of his constitution and body, he is not ordered to fast, because it is not obligatory (wajib) upon him; rather, it is a Sunnah (recommended practice) that he performs if he is able. Yes.