Are there Islamic activities that can compete with screen appeal without becoming ‘entertainment’? 

Parenting Perspective 

Yes, absolutely. The key is to make Islamic activities deeply engaging and meaningful, without diluting their sacred purpose into shallow amusement. Screens often captivate children because they are interactive, colourful, and offer instant rewards. In reality, Islamic activities can be just as compelling when they invite participation, foster learning, and are infused with a clear sense of purpose, connecting a child’s heart to their faith while capturing their full attention. 

Turn Learning into Hands-On Experiences 

Instead of simply reading about Islamic history or the lives of the prophets, bring these lessons to life. You could act out stories, build models of historical sites, or create crafts related to what you have learned. After learning about the Kaaba, for instance, a child could make their own small model using cardboard and fabric. This simple shift turns them from passive listeners into active participants who connect with the lesson on a much deeper level. 

Involve Them in Real-World Service 

Organise small, manageable charity projects as a family. This could be as simple as packing food parcels for neighbours, helping an elderly relative with their garden, or participating in a clean-up day at a local mosque. These activities combine physical action with profound spiritual reward, showing children that their faith has a tangible, positive impact on the world around them. 

Connect Faith with Natural Exploration 

Plan nature walks where you intentionally point out and discuss the signs of Allah Almighty in creation. You can link what you see—a tree, a bird, the clouds—with verses from the Quran that mention them. This approach keeps the experience fresh and active while simultaneously deepening their reflection and gratitude. It transforms a simple walk into an outdoor classroom of faith. 

Introduce Healthy Challenge and Achievement 

Children are often motivated by goals and a sense of progress. You can introduce this into their Islamic learning through gentle, healthy competition. This might include family memorisation contests, Islamic quiz nights, or working together to complete a family khatam (a full reading) of the Quran during Ramadan. This can spark genuine excitement while keeping the focus squarely on growth in their faith. 

When faith-based activities are immersive, purposeful, and interactive, they can certainly match the appeal of screens without ever compromising the dignity of the activity. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam itself is rich with experiences that stimulate the mind, inspire the heart, and strengthen the bonds of community. The prophetic way consistently balanced joy with purpose, ensuring that even moments of recreation and engagement also nurtured the remembrance of Allah Almighty. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Ankaboot (29), Verse 69: 

‘And those people that endeavour (to please) Us (Allah Almighty); so, We (Allah Almighty) shall indeed, guide them (to those pathways) that lead to Us; and indeed, Allah (Almighty) is with those who are benevolent (in their actions)...’ 

This verse is a promise that any effort made for the sake of Allah is met with divine guidance and reward, reaffirming that our striving in these activities is never in vain. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2664, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer, while there is good in both. Be eager for what benefits you, seek help from Allah, and do not be helpless.’ 

This powerful hadith teaches us that seeking out beneficial, strengthening activities is a characteristic of a strong believer. By offering Islamic activities that are rich in meaning, active in participation, and rewarding in both worldly and spiritual ways, you can help your child see faith not as an alternative to fun, but as a deeper and more fulfilling source of joy itself.