How can parents set firm rules during exam season without being accused of ruining relaxation time? 

Parenting Perspective 

During the stress of exams, a child may see any limit on their screen time as an attack on their only form of relaxation. The key is to frame the rules as a supportive strategy to help them succeed, not as a punishment. 

Frame the Rules as a Support Strategy 

Have a collaborative conversation before the exam period begins. Explain the ‘why’ behind the limits: ‘We know you need downtime, but studies show that too much screen time can make it harder for your brain to revise and remember information. For the next few weeks, let us agree on a shorter screen time limit to keep your mind sharp and rested for your exams’. This positions you as their ally in success. 

Offer Genuinely Relaxing Alternatives 

Acknowledge their need for rest by actively suggesting and facilitating other forms of relaxation. You could say, ‘You absolutely need your breaks. Let us make sure they are ones that will actually refresh your brain’. Suggest short walks, listening to a favourite podcast, doodling, or having a quick, fun chat over a cup of tea. This shows you are protecting their relaxation, not removing it. 

Be Consistent, Not Combative 

Once a reasonable limit is agreed upon, hold the boundary with calm consistency. Use neutral, non-emotional language, such as, ‘Okay, your 30 minutes of screen time is up now. Time to switch off as we agreed’. The less you engage in arguments, the faster your child will learn that the boundary is firm but fair, and they will adapt. 

By framing screen limits as a tool for support, not restriction, parents can help their child achieve their academic best while feeling guided and cared for, not controlled. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us to be forward-thinking in our actions and to find true, blessed relaxation in mindfulness and gratitude. 

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

‘ All those of you who are believers, seek piety from Allah (Almighty); and let every person anticipate (the consequences of) what they have sent forth (in the Hereafter) for the next day…’ 

This verse encourages us to be mindful of the future consequences of our present actions. For a student, “tomorrow” is their exam and their future success. This teaches parents and children that the discipline of limiting distractions today is a wise investment in a better outcome tomorrow. 

True rest is found in simple, grateful moments, not in overstimulation. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, 2734, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Allah is pleased with His servant when he eats a morsel of food and thanks Him for it, or drinks a sip of water and thanks Him for it.‘ 

This beautiful hadith reminds us that Allah finds pleasure in our mindful gratitude for the simplest things. During a stressful exam period, this is a powerful lesson. Genuine, refreshing rest is found not in distracting entertainment, but in simple, grateful moments like a quiet cup of tea or a short walk that calm the mind and please Allah.