How can I adjust screen limits during stressful family seasons without losing consistency? 

Parenting Perspective 

During particularly stressful periods, such as moving house, dealing with illness, or during exam season, rigidly enforcing screen time rules can become very difficult. The key is to adapt your rules temporarily without abandoning the core values behind them. This approach maintains your child’s trust and prevents the boundaries from feeling meaningless. 

Be Transparent About the Change 

It is important to communicate openly about the temporary change. You can explain, ‘Because things are a bit different for our family right now, we might have a little more screen time than usual, but we will go back to our normal routine once things settle down.’ This reassures your child that the boundaries are still important. 

Aim for Temporary Adjustment, Not Abandonment 

If you temporarily allow more technology use, try to balance it with intentional connection. This might mean watching something together or scheduling short, device-free breaks during the day. This ensures that screens do not replace time for connection, even when routines are disrupted. 

Return Gradually to Normal 

Once life returns to a more stable rhythm, ease back into your regular limits rather than making an abrupt cut. A gradual return to the normal routine helps your child to adjust without feeling resentful about the change. 

By communicating openly and preserving the spirit of your family rules, you model flexibility while reinforcing the importance of your shared values. 

Spiritual Insight 

In the Islamic tradition, adapting to changing circumstances with wisdom is highly valued. A healthy balance between firmness on principles and compassion in practice ensures that parental guidance remains effective and respected. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 286: 

‘Allah (Almighty) does not place any burden on any human being except that which is within his capacity...’ 

This foundational principle reminds us to recognise our own limitations and to adjust with mercy during particularly testing times. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6125, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Make things easy and do not make things difficult, and give glad tidings and do not make people run away.’ 

This teaches us that gentleness and flexibility, especially during hardship, preserve trust and a willingness to follow guidance. 

By adjusting screen limits with clarity and care, you uphold these principles. You maintain your child’s respect for boundaries while showing them through your actions that mercy and compassion are essential parts of family life.