Forty is a traditional number of days for discipline, devotion, and preparation in the Bible. During Lent fasting is required of all members of the Church between the ages of 18 and 59, inclusive. But the days of this required fast have been drastically reduced from all 40 days to only two. These are Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. This fast consists of having only one main meal and something light at 2 other meals that together will not make up the amount of the main meal.
Abstinence is another form of penance.
It means not eating meat as a way of remembering that Jesus died in the flesh for us. No, but they are highly recommended. As children get older, they should be taught more positive ways to observe Lent, such as going out of their way to visit neighbors or relatives who are elderly or ill, or doing jobs around the house without complaining. Adults should exercise their creativity to find ways to observe Lent, both by sacrifices and by acts of charity. . There is no better way to observe Lent than by attending daily Mass, wherever possible.