What is the ruling on not praying at the age of 12, and what should one do if they wish to pray?

Prayer is not obligatory for someone who has not reached puberty, due to the Prophet's (peace and blessings be upon him) saying: "The pen has been lifted from three: from the child until he reaches puberty." A boy is commanded to pray at the age of seven and disciplined for it at ten. Puberty is recognized by seminal emission, the growth of pubic hair, or reaching fifteen years of age. It is incumbent upon one nearing puberty to be diligent in prayer. It is not permissible to swear by other than Allah the Almighty.