Nina Thunebro, principal at Lövångers School. Archive image.
Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting, began on March 10 and continues until April 9. During this period, observant Muslims abstain from food and drink, among other things, from dawn to sunset.
While Islamic tradition generally exempts children from fasting, interpretations and starting ages vary. In practice, some children participate in fasting as well.
A recent message from the municipality to guardians highlights potential drawbacks. Fasting throughout the school day without food or drink can be challenging, potentially impacting a child's ability to learn.
Lövångersskolan, led by principal Nina Thunebro, is one of the schools sending out this message:
– Our aim is to raise awareness of the potential risks of fasting, she explains.
– Imagine going a whole day without eating or drinking. It affects everyone differently, but we want to support guardians and work together to ensure their children can thrive in school.
Thunebro emphasizes that many Muslim students choose not to fast. However, for those who do, the school's ability to intervene is limited.
Another concern is the potential disruption to sleep for fasting children who must stay awake until sunset to break their fast. This is especially true during Ramadan in the summer months.
–We can't interfere due to Sweden's religious freedom principles, but our role is to inform parents about potential challenges, explains Thunebro.
Henrik Bolin, head of the primary school department in Skellefteå municipality, clarifies that there's no official municipal stance. He emphasizes that each school has the autonomy to inform parents as they see fit.
– For instance, schools in Boliden-Jörn have a history of sending out informational messages, but this isn't a mandated practice, Bolin says.
– However, I do believe informing about the possible problems of fasting is important. We respect religious freedom, but our primary responsibility is the well-being of the children.
Utdrag ur det meddelande som skickats till vårdnadshavare på Lövångersskolan.
Ahmed Al-Ani, a board member of the Skellefteå Mosque association, says that the mosque does not pressure children into fasting.
–Many children are naturally curious and want to experience fasting first-hand, perhaps inspired by their fasting parents, Al-Ani explains.
– In such cases, we typically recommend starting with half-day fasts or even two-hour increments. Coercion is never involved.
Is there a specific age at which children should begin fasting?
– Around 12 or 13 years old can be a starting point. They can gradually increase the duration over time, testing their tolerance for a few hours at first.
But wouldn't fasting potentially hinder performance in school, especially for younger children?
– Absolutely. Children require energy to function well in school. If their schoolwork suffers, or they experience fatigue or illness, they should break the fast. It's a matter of individual capability. If they can't do it, they can't do it. End of story. There's no pressure to continue if it's not manageable.
Al-Ani acknowledges that fasting is a foundational tenet of Islam, expected of healthy adults annually. However, exceptions exist for those who are ill or have conditions like diabetes.
– Fasting holds significant importance, not just religiously but also for fostering community. We believe it offers health benefits as well. While we highly value this practice, it's certainly not mandatory for children.
Ahmed Al-Ani is the social media manager for the Skellefteå mosque.