How can parents make joint media time enjoyable for children of very different ages without leaving anyone out? 

Parenting Perspective 

Creating a shared media experience for children with a wide age gap can be challenging, but with a little creativity and flexibility, it can become a cherished family tradition. The goal is to make every child feel seen, included, and engaged. How to make shared media time enjoyable for children of different ages, with tips on choosing content and fostering inclusion. 

Choose Flexible and Multi-Layered Content 

The best choices are often films or shows that operate on multiple levels. Animated films from studios like Pixar, for example, often have simple plots and visual humour for younger children, alongside deeper themes and clever dialogue for teens and adults. This allows everyone to enjoy the same story in their own way. 

Adapt the Experience with Segments 

If a single film is too long for a younger child’s attention span, consider segmenting the evening. You could start with a short programme that everyone enjoys together. Afterwards, the younger children can do a related quiet activity, like drawing a favourite scene, while the older ones watch something more suited to their age. 

Create Age-Appropriate Roles for Everyone 

Give each child a role to make them feel like an active participant. A younger child could be the “Snack Captain,” in charge of distributing treats, while a teenager could be the “Discussion Leader,” responsible for posing thoughtful questions after the film. This ensures everyone has a valued part to play. 

Build Bridges in Your Discussion 

After the viewing, tailor your questions to be inclusive. You can ask a simple question for all ages, like, ‘What was your favourite part?’, before moving to a deeper one for the older children, such as, ‘What moral lesson did you take from the story?’ This allows everyone to contribute at their own level. 

By planning with intention, parents can craft a media experience that strengthens sibling bonds and creates happy memories for the entire family. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam places great emphasis on fostering harmony, kindness, and consideration within the family, ensuring that every member feels included and valued. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Nisa (4), Verse 36: 

‘And worship Allah (Almighty) only, and do not ascribe to anything instead of Him (Allah Almighty); (which amounts to icon worshipping/paganism); and with parents (proceed with them favourably), and with close relatives and friends and impoverished (people)…’ 

This verse, with its sweeping command for kindness to all those around us, reminds us that our primary duty of care begins at home. Being a good “companion by your side” to each of our children includes being considerate of their different needs and ages during shared family time. 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that true excellence is reflected in our treatment of our family. 

It is recorded in Mishkaat Al Masaabih, 3253, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The best of you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best among you to my family.‘ 

This is the beautiful standard set by our beloved Prophet ﷺ. Taking the time and effort to create an inclusive and joyful family media night, where every child feels seen and loved, is a direct application of this Sunnah and a mark of true excellence in faith.