How can families introduce a daily tech-free hour without making it feel like a punishment? 

Parenting Perspective 

Frame It as Quality Time, Not a Restriction 

If a daily tech-free hour is introduced as a strict new rule, children are likely to view it as a punishment. To avoid this, parents should frame the concept positively: ‘This will be our special family time to enjoy each other without any distractions.’ By focusing on what the family gains in connection, rather than what it loses in screen time, the tech-free hour can become an anticipated event instead of a source of resentment. 

Fill the Hour with Joyful Alternatives 

The success of this idea depends on replacing screen time with genuinely engaging activities. This hour could be used for storytelling, playing a board game, preparing a meal together, or going for a family walk. When children begin to associate the tech-free period with laughter, fun, and connection, it starts to feel like an enriching experience rather than a loss. 

Lead by Example with Full Participation 

Crucially, parents must also put their own devices away during this time. If a child sees a parent secretly scrolling, the entire practice loses its credibility. When the whole family participates equally, the tech-free hour is understood as a shared commitment to the family’s wellbeing, not just another rule for the children to follow. 

Spiritual Insight 

Finding Peace in Presence 

Our faith teaches that true contentment and peace of heart are not found in the constant stimulation of worldly distractions, but in the remembrance of Allah Almighty and in being mindfully present with our loved ones. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Ra’ad (13), Verse 28: 

‘…Indeed, it is only with the remembrance of Allah (Almighty) that one can (and does) find peace of mind and heart.’ 

Family Connection as an Act of Faith 

The prophetic tradition establishes kindness and connection within the family as a measure of strong faith. Carving out dedicated time to be present with one another is therefore not just a good habit, but an act of worship. 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, 278, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The best of you are those who are best to their families.’ 

Transforming Restriction into a Ritual 

By presenting the tech-free hour as a time for joy, connection, and spiritual calm, a family can transform it from a restriction into a daily source of strength. This helps children to see that a life beyond screens can be rich, warm, and fulfilling, achieving a balance that aligns with both healthy living and faith in Allah Almighty.