Yes, children of any age can perform Hajj and it is valid, but it does not count as their obligatory Hajj which becomes due after puberty. The parent or guardian assists the child with all rites and earns reward for facilitating the pilgrimage.
Yes, children of any age — including infants — can perform Hajj, and their pilgrimage is valid according to all four schools of Islamic jurisprudence. This is based on the authentic hadith in which a woman lifted up her child to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and asked, 'Is there Hajj for this one?' He replied, 'Yes, and you will have a reward.' However, it is important to understand that a child's Hajj, while valid and rewarding, does not fulfill the obligatory Hajj that becomes binding upon reaching puberty. Once the child reaches the age of puberty and meets the other conditions of obligation (financial and physical ability), they must perform Hajj again as their fard (obligatory) pilgrimage.
For children who have reached the age of discernment (mumayyiz, generally around seven years old) and can understand the rituals, they enter ihram themselves with their guardian's permission and perform the rites as an adult would — Tawaf, Sa'i, standing at Arafat, and so on — with guidance and assistance from their parent or guardian. If they are unable to complete certain rites (such as stoning the Jamarat due to the dangerous crowds), their guardian may perform those acts on their behalf. For children below the age of discernment (infants and toddlers), the parent or guardian makes the intention for ihram on the child's behalf, carries them during Tawaf and Sa'i, and ensures they are present at Arafat and the other stations. The child's ihram garments follow the same rules as adults for boys; girls wear their normal modest clothing.
Practically speaking, taking children on Hajj requires careful planning. The physical demands of Hajj — long walks in extreme heat, massive crowds, sleep deprivation during the Muzdalifah night, and the multi-day stay in Mina tents — are challenging even for healthy adults. Parents should honestly assess whether bringing young children is feasible given the specific conditions. Consider the child's age, temperament, health, and your ability to care for them while completing your own rites. Many scholars advise that while taking children is rewarding, it should not come at the expense of the parents' ability to focus on their own worship and complete their rites properly. A stroller suitable for rough terrain is essential for toddlers, and extra supplies (diapers, formula, snacks, medications) should be packed generously.
A woman lifted up a child and said: 'O Messenger of Allah, is there Hajj for this one?' He said: 'Yes, and you will have a reward.'
A woman lifted up a child and said: 'O Messenger of Allah, is there Hajj for this one?' He said: 'Yes, and you will have a reward.'
Source: Imam al-Nawawi, Sharh Sahih Muslim; Ibn Qudamah, Al-Mughni, vol. 3, Chapter on Hajj of Minors
A woman lifted up a child and said: 'O Messenger of Allah, is there Hajj for this one?' He said: 'Yes, and you will have a reward.'
Sahih Muslim #1336 (sahih)