What should parents do if their child copies their distracted behaviour during salah or meals? 

Parenting Perspective 

Acknowledge the Mirror Effect 

Children naturally learn by imitating their parents. If they observe a parent checking their phone during meals or appearing distracted during prayer, they will likely replicate that behaviour. The first step is to acknowledge this mirror effect openly instead of ignoring it. A simple admission like, ‘I realise I sometimes do that, and I want us to change,’ prevents accusations of hypocrisy and shows that personal growth is a journey for everyone. 

Correct Behaviour Through Example 

The most effective way to correct this pattern is by modelling the desired behaviour. Parents can make a deliberate point of putting their phones away before meals, giving their full attention in conversations, and approaching prayer with visible focus. Over time, these consistent actions will have a much greater impact than any verbal reminder, setting a clear standard of presence and discipline for the family. 

Make It a Shared Family Effort 

Rather than scolding a child for copying, a parent can invite them to join a shared family commitment. Suggesting, ‘Let’s all agree to keep our phones away from the table,’ or ‘Let’s help remind one another to focus during prayer,’ transforms the situation from one of blame into one of teamwork. This helps children understand that attentiveness and presence are values the entire family is working towards together. 

Spiritual Insight 

The Effort Required for Sincere Prayer 

Achieving true focus in prayer requires conscious effort and humility. If parents wish for their children to treat prayer with sincerity, they must first model that same dedication themselves. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 45: 

‘ And seek help through patience and prayer, and indeed, this is difficult (as a task) except for those who stand in awe (of Allah Almighty).’ 

The Struggle Against Distraction 

The struggle against distraction during worship is a universal human experience, acknowledged within our tradition. The key is to remain persistent in our efforts to maintain focus and sincerity. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, 389, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘When the call for prayer is made, Shaytan runs away until the call is finished. When the call is completed, he comes back. When the prayer is started, he runs away… then he comes back to distract a person until he does not know how much he has prayed.’ 

Turning Distraction into a Shared Goal 

By acknowledging the mirror effect, correcting their own behaviour first, and involving the entire family in the commitment to change, parents can turn moments of distraction into opportunities for collective growth. Children learn that being present during meals and focused in prayer is not about achieving perfection, but about the sincere, shared effort to please Allah Almighty.