What are some ways to transition from screen time to imaginative play without power struggles? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child is absorbed in a screen, their brain is operating in a mode of fast-paced, passive stimulation. Transitioning directly from this to imaginative play, which requires slower, self-generated thinking, can feel jarring and often triggers resistance. A smooth, conflict-free transition depends on using gradual shifts and making the new activity genuinely appealing. 

Use Gentle Warnings to Prepare Their Mind 

Give your child a calm heads-up that a change is coming. A simple, ‘In five minutes, we are going to put the tablet away and start building our train track,’ allows their mind to prepare for the shift, rather than feeling like their fun is being abruptly snatched away. This small act of respect can prevent a significant amount of friction. 

Create a ‘Bridge Activity’ 

Instead of expecting them to jump straight into deep imaginative play, offer a simple, hands-on ‘bridge activity’ to ease the transition. For example, after watching a show, you could start by colouring a picture of a favourite character together. This calms the nervous system and prepares the brain for a different kind of focus before you move on to more creative play. 

Invite Them to Play, Don’t Command 

The language you use can make all the difference. Frame the next activity as an exciting invitation rather than a direct order. Saying, ‘Shall we see if we can build a Lego tower that is taller than the sofa?’ sounds far more enticing and collaborative than, ‘Put that away now and go and play with your Lego.’ An invitation sparks interest, whereas a command can trigger defiance. 

Be Their ‘Play Starter’ 

Often, all a child needs is for you to help them get started. Join in for the first few minutes to get the imaginative juices flowing. Your initial involvement makes the new activity feel more exciting and rewarding, and once they are happily absorbed in their own world, you can gently step back. 

When transitions are handled with warmth and creativity, your child is far more likely to shift willingly, and play becomes a joyful alternative rather than a forced replacement. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us to guide with gentleness (rifq) and wisdom (hikmah), helping our children to choose what is beneficial for them without creating unnecessary conflict or resentment. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Aalai Imran (3), Verse 159: 

‘So, it is by the mercy from Allah (Almighty) that you (O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) are lenient with them; and if you had been harsh (in your speech) or restrained (in your heart), they would have dispersed from around you…’ 

This verse beautifully reminds us that a gentle and lenient approach is what keeps hearts connected, especially during moments of redirection or when setting boundaries. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2593, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Allah is Gentle and loves gentleness in all matters.’ 

This hadith teaches us that gentleness is not just a useful parenting tactic; it is a divine quality that we should strive to embody. It not only eases a child’s cooperation in the moment but also shapes their long-term willingness to follow guidance with an open heart. By making screen transitions gradual and inviting, you avoid power struggles while strengthening the trust that allows your child to explore imaginative play wholeheartedly.