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How do I manage fights over screen turns? 

Parenting Perspective 

Disagreements that occur in online settings frequently arise from unfulfilled expectations, feelings of unfairness, or insufficient organisation. Children might dispute, raise their voices, or even get into a scuffle about whose turn it is. This issue is more focused on fostering fairness, managing impulses, and encouraging cooperation rather than the device itself. 

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Set clear expectations to reduce friction 

  • Create and agree on timed schedules using visual timers or sharing charts 
  • Remind them often: ‘Everyone gets a fair chance. Let us look at the timer.’ 

Focus on interaction, not just screen limits 

  • Pause the screen to address tone and behaviour: ‘This conduct is not appropriate. We will take a break until we communicate respectfully.’ 
  • Offer positive reinforcement: ‘I noticed you allowed your sibling to go first.’ 
  • Introduce group activities and talk openly about feelings and fairness 

When these strategies are used consistently, children learn that how they share matters more than what they are sharing. This nurtures long-term emotional maturity and conflict resolution. 

Spiritual Insight 

Allah Almighty states in Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 10: 

Indeed, the believers are brothers (to each other); so, make peace with your brothers; and seek piety from Allah (Almighty) so that you may receive His Mercy. ‘

This verse highlights the sacred nature of sibling ties and encourages restoration and peace between disputing hearts. 

It is reported in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 66, that the Holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother or he said, for his neighbour what he loves for himself. 

This Hadith sets a clear standard for fairness and generosity. Guiding children to practise this helps them grow spiritually and emotionally. 

A reflective family reminder could be: 

Let us take turns with love, not anger. 

By embedding this principle into shared digital spaces, children begin to see fairness as an act of faith, not just a rule. 

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

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