How can I create a go-to list of activities that my child actually enjoys more than screens? 

Parenting Perspective 

A ‘go-to’ list of alternative activities is most effective when it is a menu of genuine joy, not a list of chores you feel your child should enjoy. The goal is to build a personalised collection of options that can truly compete with the instant satisfaction of a screen, empowering your child to make their own positive choices. 

Start by Observing Their Natural Interests 

Pay close attention to what naturally captures your child’s interest during their screen-free moments. Do they gravitate towards building blocks, drawing, imaginative role-play, or exploring the garden? These organically chosen interests are the perfect foundation for your list because they are based on your child’s innate curiosity, not your own agenda. 

Co-Create the List Together 

Make your child an active partner in creating the list. Ask them directly, ‘What are the most fun things we do that do not involve a screen?’ Let them help you write it down or draw pictures for each activity. This gives them a powerful sense of ownership and excitement, making them far more likely to turn to the list when they feel bored. 

Include Both Solo and Shared Activities 

Ensure the list contains a healthy mix of things they can do independently and activities you can enjoy together. Solo options like puzzles, reading, or listening to an audiobook are perfect for when you need your child to be self-sufficient. Shared activities like baking, playing board games, or going for a walk are crucial for building connection. 

Make the List Visible and the Activities Accessible 

Display the list in a colourful, easy-to-see place like the kitchen fridge or their playroom wall. Most importantly, keep the necessary supplies for these activities organised and within easy reach. If starting a non-screen activity requires a lot of setup, the path of least resistance will always lead back to the screen. 

When the list reflects your child’s unique personality and is designed for easy access, screens stop being the only exciting option and become just one choice among many. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, encouraging children to engage in beneficial and wholesome activities is a core part of their upbringing (tarbiyah), nurturing their character and teaching them to value their time. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Asr (103), Verses 1–3: 

‘By the (design of) time (by Allah Almighty), indeed, mankind shall surely (remain in a state of) deprivation (moral deficit). Except for those people who are believers and undertake virtuous acts; and encouraging (cultivating within themselves and with one another the realisation and dissemination of) the truth and encouraging (cultivating within themselves and with one another the realisation and accomplishment of) resilience…’ 

This powerful chapter reminds us that how we use our time is directly linked to our ultimate success. Guiding children towards purposeful activities is a practical way of teaching them this profound truth. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3671, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Honour your children and perfect their manners.’ 

This hadith teaches us that guiding our children towards wholesome, character-building activities is a way of honouring the trust (amanah) they represent. A thoughtfully made activity list not only keeps your child joyfully engaged; it also helps them learn that a fulfilling life is built through variety, creativity, and the purposeful use of their time.