Make sure the following signs your child is ready to fast are in you. This is so that your little one can run the fast smoothly and comfortably.
The moment of Ramadan is very special for parents who have children, because they can begin to teach fasting to their little ones. Although children are not required to fast before the age of puberty, from an early age or around the age of 7 they can be taught to get used to it.
However, before teaching your child to fast, you have to make sure that the child is ready to do it. Because the readiness of each child is different, parents are obliged to see if their child is ready to fast or not.
Signs your child is ready to fast
Here are some signs that your child is ready to fast for Ramadan that can be seen by parents. You can also accompany and provide assistance so that they are more prepared.
1. Already understand the meaning of fasting
The habit of seeing his parents endure hunger and thirst in previous years may leave an impression on the child. Try asking the child what the meaning of fasting is understood by him. If he already knows that during fasting he is not allowed to eat and drink for a certain time, it means that the child has understood the basic meaning. From here you can start teaching him fasting gradually.
2. Can you eat alone?
Because during sahur and iftar you will definitely be busy with preparing food for the family, if the child has been invited to fast but he is not able to eat alone then it will actually be a little difficult for you. However, if the child is able to eat on his own neatly, it means he is one step ready to learn to fast.
3. The condition of the child is healthy
It is not recommended for children to fast when they are sick or have certain health conditions. Even if the child asks, you should first consult with the doctor about the readiness of his body and the effects that can be experienced.
4. His curiosity is great
Towards fasting, children begin to actively ask about the meaning of the holy month. He also asked when it was time for suhoor and iftar, what prayers should be read, other complementary activities, and other questions about Ramadan. This is a sign that your child is ready to fast and you can practice it.
5. His emotional state is stable
For adults to endure hunger and thirst is not an easy thing, because it also affects the emotional state and mood throughout the day. If you see your child is still often tantrums or angry when hungry, it means he is not ready to fast. However, you can train your child by giving a gap between breakfast and lunch for 3-4 hours. If he is able to withstand hunger and thirst without being cranky, it means he is ready to fast.
Recognize Signs Your Child Is Not Fasting
When the sign that the child is ready to fast is fulfilled, the child is not necessarily able to carry out worship for half a day or all day. There are also some signs that parents need to pay attention to when accompanying their children to fast during Ramadan.
If your child is under the age of 9-10 years old and has been fasting and his condition looks pale and weak, don't be forced to continue fasting, especially for a full day of fasting. Fasting half a day can be a consideration for his health.
Also consider the nutritional intake of children while fasting. At elementary school age, children still need a lot of nutritional intake for growth and development. So, make sure your child's sahur and iftar menus contain good nutrition. Also make sure that your child doesn't get enough rest because that can make him weaker and weaker.