What should I do when a child swaps apps the second I walk in? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child quickly swaps from one screen to another as soon as you enter the room, it signals a sense of secrecy. Whether they are hiding a game during study time, watching inappropriate videos, or simply trying to avoid your disapproval, the behaviour undermines trust. As a parent, your response should balance firmness with understanding. The goal is not only to manage their device use but also to build a culture of honesty and responsibility around technology. 

Understand the Reason They Are Hiding Their Screen 

A child may be quick to swap apps for several reasons. 

• They know that the app they are using is not allowed at that particular time. 

• They feel guilty about spending too much time on entertainment. 

• They fear your reaction if they are caught doing something they should not be. 

• They want to feel a sense of control over their digital choices without interference. 

Avoid Jumping Straight to Accusations 

When you catch a quick app switch, it is more effective to avoid leading with an angry accusation. You could calmly say: ‘I noticed you changed the screen as soon as I came in. That makes me wonder if you are trying to hide something from me.’ This acknowledges the behaviour without immediately escalating the situation into a shouting match. 

Make Transparency a Non-Negotiable Rule 

Set a clear and simple boundary for device use in your home. For example: ‘If you are not able to show me your screen at any given moment, then you are not yet ready to use this device independently.’ This frames the loss of trust as a natural consequence of their secrecy, not just as a punishment. 

Teach Digital Honesty 

Explain that the device itself is not the problem, but dishonesty is. You could say: ‘Playing a game is absolutely fine when it is the right time for it. But hiding it from me breaks our trust. I would much rather you just tell me honestly what you are doing.’ 

Use Natural Consequences 

If the secrecy continues, you can implement some natural consequences that are directly linked to the issue. 

• Pause device access until they can agree to use it in a more open and honest way. 

• Set ‘shared-screen times’ where devices are only used in open, family areas of the house. 

• Link their privileges to their honesty; the more honest they are, the more independence they can earn. 

Praise Honesty Over Perfection 

When your child does show you their screen openly and honestly, be sure to affirm their choice: ‘Thank you for showing me that so honestly. That really makes me trust you more.’ 

Mini Dialogue Example 

Parent: ‘I saw you switch apps just now. That looks like you were trying to hide what you were doing.’ 

Child: ‘…I was playing a game instead of doing my homework.’ 

Parent: ‘Thank you for admitting that. I would much rather you be honest with me than try to hide things. Now, let’s get your homework finished first, and then you can have some time to play your game.’ 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches the importance of transparency, honesty, and avoiding all forms of deceptive behaviour. Even if the act of hiding a screen seems small, it can erode trust, both within the family and in a person’s relationship with Allah. 

Allah Knows What Is Hidden 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Mulk (67), Verse 13: 

‘(And know all mankind whether) you conceal your words or publicly declare them; indeed, He (Allah Almighty) is Omniscient over all of that which you (conceal) in your heart.’ 

This verse is a powerful reminder for a child that even their most hidden actions are known to Allah. You can explain: ‘Even if you manage to hide the app you are using from me, Allah already knows what is on your screen. Honesty is always better in His sight.’ 

Honesty Brings Peace and Honour 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 2518, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Leave that which makes you doubt for that which does not make you doubt. For truthfulness is tranquility, and lying is doubt.’ 

This can be simplified for a child: ‘When you feel you have to hide what you are doing, it can make your heart feel restless and worried. But when you are honest and open, your heart feels calm and peaceful, and Allah loves that honesty.’ 

By linking digital honesty to spiritual integrity, you help your child to see that their use of technology is not just about following rules, but about building a trustworthy character. Over time, they will learn that honesty brings freedom, peace, and respect, while secrecy only creates suspicion and unease.