Parenting Perspective 

Mealtimes are often invaded by phones and tablets, turning what should be moments of connection into silent scrolling sessions. A simple household ritual can break this habit and restore meals as times of gratitude and bonding. The key is to make the ritual short, meaningful, and enjoyable so it feels like an upgrade rather than a restriction. 

Begin with a Shared Pause 

Before eating, everyone places their devices in a basket or on silent in another room. Replace the impulse to check screens with a short pause to acknowledge the blessing of food. This small reset signals that mealtime is for family, not for scrolling. 

Introduce a Quick Ritual 

Instead of screens, begin with one of the following: 

• Gratitude Round: Each person says one thing they are thankful for that day. 

• Highlight Moment: Share one positive event or lesson from the day. 

• Quran Snippet or Dua: A parent or child recites a short verse or dua aloud before food. 

Keep It Consistent but Light 

Consistency matters more than variety. Even if the ritual lasts only two minutes, repeating it daily makes it part of the family identity. Keep the tone light, so children do not feel pressured to “perform.” 

End with Warmth 

Close the meal with Alhamdulillah together, reinforcing gratitude and a sense of shared blessing. Over time, the ritual itself becomes something children look forward to, making screens feel less relevant. 

This approach reframes mealtime from distraction into connection, teaching children that shared food is about more than filling stomachs; it is about feeding hearts. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam elevates mealtimes as opportunities for remembrance and gratitude. By replacing scrolling with a short ritual of dhikr, reflection, or family sharing, parents guide children to see meals as acts of worship. 

Qur’an Guidance 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Anfaal (8), Verses 11: 

‘(Remember) when He (Allah Almighty) caused you to become sedated (from any fear or pain) giving you absolute security (for the battle ahead)…’ 

This reminds us that every bite is a gift and that meals are moments to pause, remember, and give thanks. 

Hadith Reminder 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 1858, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘When one of you eats food, let him say: Bismillah. If he forgets, let him say: Bismillah fi awwalihi wa akhirihi.’ 

This teaches us that even a simple remembrance transforms eating into worship. 

By introducing a quick household ritual in place of scrolling, families nurture gratitude, togetherness, and spiritual mindfulness. Children learn that meals are not only for the body but also for remembering Allah Almighty and strengthening family ties.