What should parents do if a child plays games or videos while Quran is playing in the background? 

Parenting Perspective 

Teach Respect for the Words of Allah 

If a child plays a game while the Quran is being recited, it suggests they view the recitation as mere ‘background noise.’ A parent should gently explain that the words of Allah deserve our full attention and respect. Saying, ‘When the Quran is playing, we should pause other activities to listen, because honouring it brings blessings,’ transforms the moment from a simple correction into a lesson in reverence. 

Create Clear Family Guidelines 

To prevent this from becoming a habit, a family can set a clear guideline: when the Quran is being recited, all other media must be paused. Parents must practise this themselves, for example, by putting down their own phones when the recitation begins. When children see this consistency, they understand that the rule is about showing respect, not about parental control. 

Offer Practical Alternatives 

If a child still wishes to use their device, a parent can guide them to do so at a different time, either after the recitation is over or at another point in the day. By scheduling dedicated Quran-listening moments, parents help their children to associate the Quran with calm and focus, rather than mixing it with entertainment. 

Spiritual Insight 

The Command to Listen Attentively 

The Quran itself commands believers to listen attentively and pay respect when its verses are recited. This act of focused listening is not merely a matter of etiquette; it is a direct path to receiving the mercy of Allah. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Aa’raaf (7), Verse 204: 

‘And when the Quran is recited, so listen to it, and pay attention to it, so that you may receive mercy (from Allah Almighty).’ 

The Quran as an Intercessor 

The prophetic tradition teaches that the Quran will act as an intercessor on the Day of Judgement for those who were its sincere companions in this life. This companionship is built through focused engagement, not casual background listening. 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, 991, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Recite the Quran, for it will come on the Day of Resurrection as an intercessor for its companions.’ 

The Quran is Not Background Audio 

By teaching respect, setting clear family guidelines, and modelling attentive behaviour, parents can help their children understand that the Quran is not simply background audio. It is the sacred word of Allah, deserving of our full attention, which has the power to shape our hearts and bring mercy into our homes.