I want my child to play outdoors or read more, but they resist. How can I reawaken natural curiosity? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child resists activities like outdoor play or reading, it is often because their mind has been conditioned by screens to expect constant stimulation and instant rewards. Reawakening their natural curiosity is not about forcing them to abandon technology, but about patiently and creatively making real-world experiences exciting again. 

Start with Small, Enjoyable Invitations 

If reading or playing outside has lost its appeal, begin with short, enjoyable bursts rather than demanding long sessions. Invite them for ‘just ten minutes’ of playing catch or reading a book together on the sofa, with no pressure to continue. Once they are engaged and enjoying themselves, the time will often extend naturally. The key is to make the invitation feel low-pressure and appealing. 

Build a Bridge from Screens to Reality 

Use your child’s digital interests as a bridge to real-world activities. If they enjoy a particular adventure cartoon, you could create a scavenger hunt in the garden based on its theme. If they love building games, introduce them to fascinating books about real-life inventors, engineers, or architects. This method validates their interests while gently guiding them towards hands-on exploration. 

Create ‘No-Screen’ Windows for Play 

If a tablet or television is always within reach, it will almost always win the battle for their attention. Schedule specific, predictable hours when all screens are put away. During these times, make other engaging options readily available, such as board games, a new set of library books, or a planned nature walk. These protected windows remove the competition and allow natural curiosity to surface. 

Model Curiosity and Enthusiasm 

Sometimes, the most effective way to spark a child’s interest is to model it yourself. Show genuine excitement when you notice a unique bird in the garden, read a funny passage from your own book aloud, or invite them to help you spot shapes in the clouds. Your enthusiasm is contagious and teaches them that the world is full of interesting things worth noticing. 

Reigniting a child’s curiosity takes time, but when you consistently offer appealing, real-world experiences and show genuine delight yourself, your child will begin to remember the profound pleasure of exploring the world beyond a screen. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, seeking knowledge and appreciating the world around us are considered forms of worship. The Quran repeatedly calls believers to reflect on the signs of creation, while the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged active and beneficial recreation. When children engage with the natural world and books, they are not just playing or reading; they are building their understanding, gratitude, and connection to Allah Almighty. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Ghaashiyah (88), Verses 17–20: 

‘Have they not empirically observed the clouds (carrying millions of gallons of water), and how they are created? And at the layers of trans-universal existence – how it is upheld (without any pillars)? And at the mountains – how they are established? And the Earth – how it is vastly laid out?’ 

This powerful series of questions reminds us that actively noticing and reflecting upon creation is an integral part of faith. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 224, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The seeking of knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim.’ 

This famous hadith teaches us that reading, learning, and exploring are not optional extras in a believer’s life, but essential duties. By guiding your child towards outdoor exploration and reading, you help them rediscover the joy of learning and the wonder of creation experiences that will positively shape both their character and their faith for years to come.