The discerning child is commanded to fast until he becomes accustomed to it

Question: A questioner from Afif says: I have a son who is twelve years old. Do I have to obligate him to fast, or is his fasting voluntary and not obligatory upon him? Knowing that he may not be able to endure the entire month. May Allah reward you with good.

Answer: If the son mentioned has not reached puberty, fasting is not obligatory upon him. However, you must command him to fast if he is able to do so, so that he practices it and becomes accustomed to it, just as he is commanded to pray when he reaches ten years of age and is struck for it. May Allah guide them all.