Gravity of missing a Fast without a valid reason

There are many parents who prevent and discourage their children from fasting during the exam period, which is very grave. This is because according to the Shari’ah, a Muslim who is sane and major, MUST fast. Without a valid reason, it is not permissible to even miss a fast. Missing a fast without any valid reason is a Kabeerah Gunnah (great sin).

Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alahi Wasallam) said: "The one who misses a fast of Ramadhan without a reason (valid according to the Shari’ah) and without an illness (grave), fasting for the rest of his life will not suffice to replace this fast." (Tirmizi, Abu Dawud, Nasai and Ibn Majah)

[English version of "Gravite manque ene roza de Ramadwan sans raison valable" – Al Jamiat – Vol.3 No.8]