Can too much screen time make tantrums worse and what is the solution?
Parenting Perspective
Screen time frequently presents a delicate challenge in contemporary parenting, particularly in regulating children’s behaviour. Although technology can provide instructional material and temporary tranquilly, excessive screen time may overstimulate the brain and impair a child’s emotional regulation. Excessive exposure to rapid entertainment might foster expectations of immediate pleasure, rendering quotidian chores seemingly sluggish or exasperating by comparison. This may elucidate why certain children exhibit increased irritability, attentional difficulties, or defiance following prolonged screen exposure. Consistent outbursts upon screen shutdown may indicate that the device is not merely a distraction but rather a dependency.
To mitigate this issue, parents are advised to establish regular limits on screen time and provide age-appropriate alternatives that foster creativity, physical engagement, or social
contact. Visual countdowns, designated time intervals, or incentivising screen-free activities might mitigate reluctance. In the event of a tantrum, it is crucial to avoid prolonging screen time as a means of comforting the child, as this may perpetuate the pattern. A composed and assertive answer teaches the youngster that emotions are legitimate, yet boundaries persist. Recognising that children may lack the self-regulation skills necessary for a seamless transition away from screens highlights that these difficulties are not indicators of failure, but rather chances to exemplify structure, patience, and compassion.
Spiritual Insight
Islamic parenting emphasises the balance between emotional guidance and spiritual responsibility. Allah Almighty reminds us in the noble Quran at Surah Al Furqan (25), Verse 67: ‘And it is those people that do not spend extravagantly and are not miserly; and (act in such a way) that is a balanced format between these two (extreme characteristics).’ This verse, while discussing financial issues, highlights the broader Islamic principle of moderation. The same idea can be used to understand how children interact with screens. Excessive exposure can influence a child’s behaviour and may also disrupt their engagement in important activities like learning, prayer, and spending time with family.
Moreover, it is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Book 33 Hadith 1829a, it has been narrated on the authority of Ibn ‘Umar that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: ‘Every one of you is a shepherd, and every one of you is responsible for his flock.’ This Hadith emphasises the importance of parents guiding their children with care, planning, and a sense of duty. Promoting organised habits with technology is not about taking away happiness, but rather about safeguarding the child’s health and wellbeing. Parents may also consider reciting the Dua for protection: ‘A’udhu bi kalimaat Allah il-taammaati min sharri maa khalaq’ (I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah Almighty from the evil of what He has created). When taught gently and consistently, these efforts nurture discipline with mercy, and screen habits can become a space for reflection, not struggle.
