Ramadan in UAE: Is this your child's first time to fast? Take it slow, say experts

Khaleej Times

28-02-2025

Fasting for the first time is a significant step for any Muslim child. While their enthusiasm is commendable, experts recommend gradually introducing them to the practice to ensure a smooth and positive experience, which can help extend the duration of fasting year after year.
Many parents introduce fasting gradually, allowing children to fast for short periods based on their ability. Some as young as six start with an hour or two before extending to longer durations.
"I encourage my children to fast; and my older boys—aged 10 and 8—even challenge each other. My five-year-old, Obaid, wants to fast, too, but his kindergarten requires breakfast before attending. Last year, when he was four years old, he fasted for an hour after waking up, but with school in session, I might let him fast an hour before iftar instead," Mariam Al-Mohannadi, an Emirati mother of three in Dubai, shared with Khaleej Times.
Al-Mohannadi motivates her children by rewarding fasting, prayer, and Quran reading with a pottery money bank. At the end of Ramadan, they break the bank, donate part to charity, and keep the rest.
Huda, a mother of children Fahad aged nine and Latifa aged six, who attend a private school in Dubai, follows a similar method. "Fahad now fasts fully after starting gradually three years ago. Latifa, in her second year, used to fast in two segments—from 7am to noon, then 2pm until iftar. She wants to try a full fast this year," she added.
Al-Mohannadi also created a Ramadan calendar to track their fasting days, with a reward at the end.
Supporting children fasting in school
Schools also play a role in making fasting easier for children, and in creating a calm and positive environment.
"In the week before Ramadan, we run 'Tahadou, Tahabou,' where students and staff exchange small gifts like Quranic verses, sweets, and drinks to build gratitude and community," Lisa Johnson, principal of the American Academy for Girls, said.
The school modifies physical activities, provides quiet areas, and offers cultural lessons on fasting through storytelling and discussions.
"To help students cope with late-night Ramadan gatherings, teachers prepare educational videos for flexible learning. Allowing students to review the content at a time that suits their energy levels," she explained.
"For younger students, we ensure fasting is gradual and positive. We provide quiet areas and monitor their well-being. "Instead of focusing solely on fasting, students also engage in storytelling, discussions, and Ramadan songs to learn patience, gratitude, and generosity," Nav Iqbal, CEO of GEMS Metropole School at Motor City, said.
A balanced approach
With gradual fasting, proper nutrition, and school support, children can experience Ramadan in a meaningful, healthy way—building their spiritual connection while staying energised.
Dr. Amjad Mohammed Haider, a pediatric consultant at the International Modern Hospital, advised keeping fasting short for children under ten.
"If a child is under 10, fasting for a few hours—like from breakfast to lunch—is ideal before extending the duration," he said.
He recommended a balanced 'suhoor' (the meal before fasting) with complex carbs, protein, and fiber, such as eggs, bread, cheese, dates, yogurt, and fruits.
Hydration is key
Dr Haider stressed that iftar should start with two dates and water, followed by nutritious meals with fruits and salads for hydration.
"Water, water, water!" he strongly advised, along with having juices and milkshakes to curb hunger. He also recommended what food to avoid:
"Wait 2–3 hours before giving sweets." Dr Amjad also emphasised regulating physical activity to avoid exhaustion.