Ruling on allowing children to enter Masjids

Q 1: Is it permissible for children to enter Masjids (Mosques)? How do we respond to those who consider it not permissible? A: It is recommended to bring children to the Masjid so they will become accustomed to offering Salah (Prayer) in congregation, if the child has reached the age of discernment. It is authentically reported that 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 do not let (boys and girls) sleep together. As for the account that the Prophet (peace be upon them) said: Keep your children and the insane away from your Masjids, it is unauthentic.However, if a child has not reached the age of discernment, it is best not to bring him to the Masjid, as he is unaware of the meaning of Salah or congregation. Also, the child may disturb those offering Salah. (Part No. 5; Page No. 264

A: It is recommended to bring children to the Masjid so they will become accustomed to offering Salah (Prayer) in congregation, if the child has reached the age of discernment. It is authentically reported that 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 do not let (boys and girls) sleep together. As for the account that the Prophet (peace be upon them) said: Keep your children and the insane away from your Masjids, it is unauthentic.However, if a child has not reached the age of discernment, it is best not to bring him to the Masjid, as he is unaware of the meaning of Salah or congregation. Also, the child may disturb those offering Salah. (Part No. 5; Page No. 264) May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.