How can I model putting my phone down mid-scroll when my child asks for attention, so they see that people come before screens? 

Parenting Perspective 

Children learn what we value by watching what we do. If you want your child to understand that people are more important than screens, they must regularly see this principle reflected in your own actions. 

Respond Immediately and Visibly 

When your child asks for your attention while you are on your phone, try to pause without hesitation. Placing your phone face-down or moving it out of reach is a powerful physical action. It communicates clearly that they are your priority, even before you say a word. 

Narrate Your Choice 

Children learn from observing the reasons for our actions. You can briefly narrate your choice by saying, ‘I was just reading something, but you are more important, so I am putting this away.’ This simple narration helps them to connect your action to the underlying value: that people always come first. 

Make Eye Contact and Engage Fully 

After setting your phone aside, give your child your full and undivided attention. Make eye contact and listen thoughtfully to what they have to say. This moment of complete engagement becomes a powerful example that they can later mirror in their own relationships. 

By consistently modelling this habit, you show your child that devices are merely tools, not our masters, and that real, present connection will always take priority over virtual engagement. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us to give people our full respect and attention when they speak to us. This reflects both the beautiful manners (adab) of a believer and the high value placed on human relationships over worldly distractions. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 11: 

‘…And do not insult each other; and do not call each other by (offensive) nicknames; how bad is it to be called by nefarious names after the attainment of faith…’ 

This verse, which forbids mockery, is rooted in the principle of upholding the dignity of others. Giving someone our full, undivided attention is a fundamental way we show them this dignity and respect. 

It is recorded in the famous collection, Musnad Ahmad, Hadith 684, that the companions of the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ described his perfect manners, noting that: 

‘when he turned, he would turn his whole body.’ 

This teaches us that even with his immense responsibilities, the Prophet ﷺ made every single person he spoke to feel completely valued and respected in his presence. 

By practising this beautiful prophetic manner pausing, turning, and engaging with sincerity you not only meet your child’s need for attention but also show them, through a living example, that people will always come before screens.