How can I help my child notice mood changes linked to prolonged device use? 

Parenting Perspective 

A key step in self-regulation is learning to recognise how our activities affect our feelings. By gently guiding your child to notice their own mood shifts, you empower them to make healthier choices for themselves. 

Encourage Daily Check-ins 

Introduce short, simple ‘mood check’ conversations at predictable times, such as after school or before bed. You can ask, ‘How is your body feeling right now? Energised or tired?’ This regular reflection helps them to connect feelings with recent activities. 

Use Visual Tracking Tools 

For younger children, a simple visual chart can be very effective. They could use coloured stickers or emojis to mark their mood before and after using a device. Over time, the patterns become clear to them, which is more powerful than a parent pointing it out. 

Share Your Own Observations Gently 

If you notice a change in their behaviour after a long gaming session, you can mention it gently and without judgment. You could say, ‘I have noticed that after a lot of time on the tablet, you seem a bit more restless. Have you felt that too?’ This models self-awareness without shaming. 

The goal is not to make screens “bad”, but to help them build emotional self-awareness. Once they can recognise shifts in their mood, they are more likely to self-regulate before reaching a state of overwhelm. 

Spiritual Insight 

In the Islamic tradition, self-awareness is closely linked to self-control. Noticing changes in our own emotional and spiritual state is a key part of nurturing a healthy heart. While screens are a tool, their unchecked use can affect our patience, focus, and character. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hashr (59), Verse 18: 

‘O you who have believed, fear Allah. And let every soul look to what it has put forth for tomorrow…’ 

This reminds us to be mindful of how our daily actions, including how we spend our time, are shaping our future well-being and our standing with God. 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, Hadith 170, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Part of the perfection of a person’s Islam is his leaving that which does not concern him.’ 

This teaches us the wisdom of being intentional with our time and attention, focusing on what is truly beneficial rather than filling our moments with mindless distraction. 

By helping your child notice their moods after screen use, you are guiding them towards the Islamic practice of muhasabah (self-accountability), so they can make healthier, faith-conscious choices for their mind and heart.