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How do I talk openly about my own screen temptations without undermining authority? 

Parenting Perspective 

Being open about your own challenges with technology can be a powerful way to connect with your child. It shows them that self-control is a lifelong practice for everyone, and it can be done without undermining your role as a parent. 

Click below to discover meaningful books that nurture strong values in your child and support you on your parenting journey

Share With Honesty but Balance 

Let your child know that adults also face distractions. You could say, ‘Sometimes I find it hard to put my phone down too, but I try my best so I can focus on our family.’ This shows that self-control is a skill we all practise, without positioning you as someone who cannot manage their own habits. 

Keep the Focus on Learning, Not Struggling 

When you share your experience, frame it as an example of how you solve a problem. For instance, ‘When I feel tempted to scroll for too long, I find it helps to put my phone in another room for a while.’ This way, you are teaching a practical solution, not just admitting a weakness. 

Link It to Family Values 

Explain that everyone in the family, both children and adults, is working together to make choices that align with your shared household values. This reinforces the idea that the rules are about creating a better family environment, not just about parental control. 

By framing your openness as a lesson in self-awareness and solutions, you teach that facing temptation is normal, but what matters is how we respond to it. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, acknowledging our human imperfections while continuously striving to improve is a sign of sincerity. Admitting our own challenges with humility can strengthen trust and provides a powerful, living example for our children. 

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

‘So by mercy from Allah, you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] or harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you…’ 

This verse reminds us that gentleness, leniency, and an approachable manner are what build connection and positive influence. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2609, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The strong man is not the one who is good at wrestling, but the strong man is the one who controls himself in a fit of rage.’ 

This teaches us that true strength is found in self-control, a value that our children can directly observe and learn from our own behaviour. 

By speaking openly about your screen temptations with humility and a focus on solutions, you model sincerity and self-discipline, showing your child that true authority comes from responsible leadership, not from perfection. 

Click below to discover meaningful books that nurture strong values in your child and support you on your parenting journey

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