What should parents do if a child uses Islamic audio in a disrespectful setting, like during jokes or play? 

Parenting Perspective 

Address the Behaviour with Calm Clarity 

When a child plays Quran recitation during a game, it is usually due to immaturity, not intentional disrespect. A parent should respond calmly but clearly, explaining: ‘These are the words of Allah and His Messenger ﷺ, and we must treat them with dignity. They are not meant for games or as background noise.’ This approach corrects the behaviour without shaming the child, while still teaching the importance of reverence. 

Teach Context and Purpose 

Parents can help their children to understand that Islamic audio has a specific purpose: for reflection and worship, not for casual amusement. It helps to set clear family rules, such as only listening in a calm space or pausing other activities during the recitation. When children learn that sacred content has its own time and place, they naturally begin to separate it from playtime. 

Model Respectful Use 

Children learn best from observation. If parents themselves stop what they are doing, listen attentively, and encourage a quiet atmosphere when Islamic audio is playing, their children will naturally adopt the same adab. Through consistent and sincere modelling, reverence becomes an integral part of the family culture. 

Spiritual Insight 

Honouring the Symbols of Allah 

Islam teaches that showing honour to the symbols of Allah, including His sacred words, is a direct reflection of the piety and consciousness (taqwa) within a person’s heart. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hajj (22), Verse 32: 

‘ These (are the commandments), and whoever pays tribute to the Symbols of Allah (Almighty) (i.e. all those places and people who are connected with Allah Almighty), then indeed, (such actions are the best depiction of the) piety of the hearts.‘ 

Sacred Words Require Sincerity 

The prophetic tradition is filled with examples of how to engage with sacred words and rituals. The emphasis is always on being present and sincere, which is the opposite of the casualness shown when mixing worship with play. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, 6402, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘When the Imam says “Ameen,” then say “Ameen,” for if one’s “Ameen” coincides with that of the angels, his past sins will be forgiven.’ 

Guidance, Not Entertainment 

By calmly correcting the behaviour, teaching the proper context, and modelling respect, parents can help their children understand that Islamic audio is a source of guidance, not entertainment. This approach ensures that children grow up with a deep recognition of the sanctity of Allah’s words, strengthening both reverence and iman in the home.