How can I help my child use digital time in a way that feels meaningful and respectful? 

Parenting Perspective 

Shaping the Purpose Behind Screen Use 

To guide your child toward meaningful digital habits, start by shaping the purpose behind their screen use. Rather than banning entertainment entirely, introduce digital experiences that feed curiosity, kindness, and spiritual growth. Suggest using apps that teach Quranic Arabic, tell stories from the Seerah, or explore the beauty of Allah Almighty’s creation through nature and science. Sit beside your child sometimes and explore these tools together, it reinforces your interest in their world and allows you to steer their engagement gently. 

Creating Digital Boundaries Anchored in Values 

Create digital boundaries anchored in family values. For instance, designate part of screen time for learning something new or practising a skill, followed by a short reflection: ‘What did that teach you?’ or ‘How did that make you feel?’ Use spiritual cues like Islamic wallpapers, a daily Hadith widget, or Quranic audio recitation during breaks. These subtle additions make screen time feel purposeful, not passive. When you model and encourage this mindful use, your child learns that devices can uplift them, rather than distract. They begin to see technology as a tool to grow their character, not just consume content. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that balance is key in all areas of life, even more so in a world of instant access and digital saturation. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hashar (59), Verse 18: 

“All those of you who are believers, seek piety from Allah (Almighty); and let every person anticipate (the consequences of) what they have sent forth (in the Hereafter) for the next day; and seek piety from Allah (Almighty); as indeed, Allah (Almighty) is fully Cognisant with all your actions. “

This powerful verse urges believers to reflect on their actions and how they invest their time, an essential concept when guiding children through the digital age. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 7017, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

“There are two blessings which many people waste: health and free time. “

This Hadith reminds us that time is a sacred trust. When children are taught to approach screen time with reflection and intention, they learn that every click, scroll, or video watched is part of their account and legacy. 

Encourage your child to pause before opening an app and ask themselves, ‘Will this help me grow closer to Allah Almighty or pull me away?’ Frame this not as a fear-based question but as a way of nurturing spiritual awareness. Show them that even leisure can be Halal, joyful, and rewarding when chosen wisely. 

Helping your child navigate technology with purpose is an act of worship in itself. It strengthens their Imaan and equips them to live with integrity in a world of distractions. With every thoughtful scroll and every faith-inspired click, they can grow into confident, spiritually grounded digital citizens.