How can parents model healthy tech habits so that children see boundaries in action? 

Parenting Perspective 

The most powerful way to teach healthy digital habits is to live them. Children learn what is important not from what we say, but from what they see us do every day. 

Demonstrate Balanced Screen Use 

Make a visible effort to set aside your own phone during important family moments like meals and conversations. This powerful, silent action shows them that technology is a tool, not the centre of your life. 

Set Visible ‘No-Tech’ Zones and Times 

Establish clear ‘no-tech’ zones and times in your home, such as the dinner table or bedrooms after a certain hour. When you follow these rules yourself, they become part of the family culture, not just rules for the children. 

Prioritise Offline Activities 

Let your children see you genuinely enjoying life without a screen. When they see you actively engaged in hobbies, reading, or spending time outdoors, they understand that a healthy life includes a rich variety of experiences. 

Use Tech Purposefully 

When you do use a device in front of them, try to explain your purpose. Saying something like, ‘I am just using my phone to check the prayer times,’ helps them to distinguish between intentional use and mindless scrolling. 

Your consistent example is the most effective teacher. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam places immense importance on leading by example. Our own actions are the most powerful form of da’wah (invitation) to our children. 

Leading Through Example 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah As Saff (61), Verse 2: 

‘O you who have believed, why do you say what you do not do?…’ 

This reminds us that the most powerful teaching comes from living by the same standards that we ask of others, as our actions must match our words. 

Setting a Standard of Moderation 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6114, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The strong person is not the one who overpowers others by wrestling, but the strong person is the one who controls himself when he is angry.’ 

This teaches us that self-control, including with our own use of technology, is a sign of true strength. Modelling this self-mastery helps children to learn the importance of boundaries through your living example.