How can I explain the “why” behind screen limits in a way that makes sense to a 7-year-old? 

Parenting Perspective 

For a young child, abstract concepts like ‘health’ or ‘balance’ can be difficult to grasp. Explaining the reasons for screen limits needs to be simple, concrete, and connected to things they already understand and care about. 

Use Simple, Relatable Language 

Use comparisons from their everyday life. Instead of saying, ‘Too much screen time is unhealthy,’ you could try, ‘Screens are a bit like sweets. A little bit is a fun treat, but too much can make our bodies and minds feel tired.’ This links the concept to something familiar. 

Focus on Benefits, Not Just Rules 

Frame the limits around what they gain, not what they lose. Explain that when they take a break from screens, their ‘eyes get to rest,’ their ‘body gets stronger from playing,’ and their ‘brain has time to come up with new ideas.’ This positive framing makes the limits feel helpful. 

Use Visual Examples 

A simple drawing can be very effective. You could sketch a circle and divide it into sections for school, play, meals, rest, and screen time. Visual aids help to make the idea of a balanced day concrete and easier for a young child to understand. 

Tie It to Their Personal Goals 

Connect the limits directly to their own hobbies and goals. You could say, ‘If we put the tablet away now, you will have more time to practise your football kicks and get even better!’ This makes the benefit of the limit feel personal and immediate. 

By keeping the explanation simple, visual, and personal, you make the “why” behind screen limits feel logical and even appealing to your child. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, moderation is a sign of wisdom and is considered a core principle for a healthy life. Teaching children the value of balance at a young age helps them to use their time in ways that will benefit them both in this world and the Hereafter. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Furqan (25), Verse 67: 

‘And [they are] those who, when they spend, do so not excessively or sparingly but are ever, between that, [justly] moderate…’ 

This reminds us that the best and most blessed path in all our affairs, including our habits and use of time, is the balanced one. 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, Hadith 1381, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Whoever follows a path in pursuit of knowledge, Allah will make a path to Paradise easy for him.’ 

This teaches us that our time is most valuable when it is directed toward beneficial goals like learning and personal growth, rather than being consumed entirely by entertainment. 

By connecting screen limits to balance, health, and personal growth, you help your child understand that these rules are not about taking something away, but about making space for the things that help them thrive in every part of life.