Shulchan Menachem. We are learning Chapter Reish Lamed Zayin, 237, discussing the recitation of Ma Nishtanah at the Seder.
The Chabad custom is that after the child asks the Ma Nishtanah, the leader of the Seder—and in many cases others at the table as well—repeat the Ma Nishtanah. This is not merely a minhag, but is rooted in the ruling of the Rambam, who writes that after the questions are asked, “hakoreh,” the one leading, also recites them.
This differs from the approach found in Shulchan Aruch, where the structure is more conditional: ideally a child asks; if not, the wife asks; and if no one is present, one asks himself. According to some views, if no one else is present, one may proceed directly to Avadim Hayinu without repeating the Ma Nishtanah.
However, following the Rambam, the Chabad custom is that even after the child asks, the questions are repeated.
Another custom noted is that the child begins with the phrase, “Tate, ich vil bei dir fregn di fir kashes”—“Father, I wish to ask you the four questions.” This is said even if the father is not present. The Rebbe explains that this reflects the concept of honoring one’s parents even after their passing.
Regarding who asks the Ma Nishtanah, although the language in halachic texts often refers to “ha-ben,” the son, the Rebbe clarifies from his sichos that the custom is for the youngest child to ask—whether a boy or a girl. When Hashem blesses a family with children, the youngest among them is given this role.
While in many homes all the children participate and say the Ma Nishtanah, which is certainly a positive and engaging practice, the essential requirement is that the youngest child asks the questions.
Summary
Chabad custom follows the Rambam that Ma Nishtanah is repeated even after the child asks. The youngest child—boy or girl—should ask, and the practice of including all children enhances participation while maintaining the core requirement.