What should I do if my child says they are ‘too tired’ for play but will still scroll or watch videos? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child says they are too tired for active play yet still has the energy to watch videos, it is usually because screens offer easy stimulation with very little mental or physical effort. This is less a sign of laziness and more an indicator that they are seeking comfort and rest in the most accessible way they know. Rather than insisting on high-energy activities, the best approach is to offer gentle, low-effort alternatives that still foster connection, such as doing a puzzle, doodling together, or listening to an audiobook. 

Meet Them Where They Are 

If your child seems genuinely drained, meet them at their energy level. Begin with something calming and restorative. This could be listening to soft music, reading a book aloud, or simply lying down together while quietly talking about the day. Often, once a child feels emotionally reconnected and rested, their natural desire for more active play will return on its own. 

Redefine ‘Tired’ Time 

You can help your child understand that ‘rest’ does not automatically have to mean ‘screens’. A practical way to do this is to create a dedicated ‘cosy corner’ in your home. Stock it with soft blankets, inviting books, and art supplies, so they have a comfortable and appealing alternative for their downtime. The more they see you using this space to relax, the more likely they are to follow your lead. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam guides us towards moderation in all our habits and reminds us that true rest involves caring for the rights of our body in a balanced way. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Aa’raaf (7), Verse 31: 

‘O children of Adam, take (appropriate) measures to beautify yourself (before you appear) at any place of worship (for Prayer); and eat and drink and do not be extravagant (wasteful), as indeed, He (Allah Almighty) does not like extravagance…‘ 

This verse provides a guiding principle for all of life: balance and the avoidance of excess. This applies even to our relaxation. While screens can be a part of downtime, turning to them excessively, to the exclusion of all other forms of rest, goes against this spirit of moderation. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5199, that the holy Prophet Muhammad $ﷺ$ said: 

‘Your body has a right over you.’ 

This profound statement teaches us that our bodies have rights that we must fulfil. True care for the body involves providing it with wholesome rest, gentle activity, and real connection not just the passive stimulation offered by a screen. Guiding our children towards this balanced view of rest is essential for their well-being.