Children going out for `Eid Prayer

A: Children who are seven years old or older should not be (Part No. 8; Page No. 289) prevented from coming to the Mussala of `Eid. This is because the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Command your children to pray when they are seven years old, and beat them for (neglecting) it when they are ten years old; and arrange their beds (to sleep) separately. However, children should be advised and guided to follow the etiquettes of Islam, to adhere to the rights of Salah and the worshipers, to listen to the Khutbah and admonitions, and not to speak loudly lest they disturb the Khatib (preacher) and those who are listening to him. On the other hand, the parents and guardians of children should be made aware of that so they may refine their children and discipline them. At the same time, the parents and guardians should be moderate; they should neither repress their children nor give them full rein to play frivolously and disturb the worshipers. Allah (Exalted be He) is the Only One from whom we should seek help.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.