Are Catholic children required to fast during Lent?

Answer 1

Catholic AnswerNo, the current law for fasting does not go into effect until one has completed their twenty-first year: Current law in the Catholic Church requires abstinence from mean, but not eggs, the products of milk, or condiments made of animal fat on all Fridays of the year. In the United States, by special dispensation, the faithful may choose another form of abstinence on Fridays outside of Lent. Abstinence is required for all who have attained their fourteenth year of age. Fasting is only required on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday for all of those who have completed their twenty-first year and up until the beginning of their sixtieth year. Fasting regulations in the church currently provide for only one full meal during the day, although some food may be taken at breakfast and a collation at lunch, although, together, the amount can not equal another full meal. According to Church law, the "substantial observance" of Fridays as days of penance, whether by abstinence or in other ways, "is a grave obligation".