What are ways to make car rides or chores emotionally connecting rather than rushed tasks? 

Parenting Perspective 

Daily activities like chores and car rides provide opportunities for interaction that are often missed. Take your time and engage in discussion rather than approaching them as chores to be completed. Play your child’s favourite Naat or inquire about their day while they are riding. Ask thoughtful questions like What made you smile today? or What was tricky? as you fold laundry together. Sharing everyday activities with your child helps them develop emotional rhythm and focuses on attention rather than speed. Over time, even casual conversations during these sporadic times might develop a consistent level of intimacy. 

Spiritual Insight 

Intentionality turns everyday acts into worship. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Mulk (67), Verse 2: 

‘It is He (Allah Almighty) Who has created mortal expiration and life so that you may be tested; as to which one a few (conducts himself) in better deeds… ‘

Even routine tasks can become deeds of love and connection when done consciously. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6039, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ helped with household chores while staying emotionally present with his family. Al Aswad asked Aisha (RA) what the Prophet ﷺ used to do at home. She replied: 

‘He used to keep himself busy serving his family…‘

Ordinary conversations become spiritually profound when one follows this prophetic example.