Fasting is required for adults, but children and youth practice fasting during part of the month, or part of the day. Many older Muslim students, fast for the whole month, and some younger children want to fast during part of the month, if they are willing and able and if their parents allow them to do so. Children love to participate in the practice as a way of feeling included in this festive month, and feeling grown up and able to prove themselves, even if they fast only a few days or part of a day. Muslims are required to fast when they reach puberty.
