How can parents show children that they value conversation over notifications in daily life? 

Parenting Perspective 

Prioritise People Over Devices 

Children are highly observant and can easily tell whether a parent prioritises a notification over a conversation. If messages are answered instantly while a child is told to ‘wait a moment,’ the child learns that the device is more important than they are. Parents can reverse this by intentionally silencing their phone or putting it aside during conversations. Stating aloud, ‘This can wait, I want to listen to you first,’ is a small but powerful gesture that teaches children that people should always come before screens. 

Create Rituals of Undivided Attention 

Establishing simple family rituals, like phone-free meals, dedicated bedtime talks, or walks without devices, reinforces that conversation deserves full attention. By protecting these moments, parents show that family time is sacred and should not be interrupted. Over time, these habits make children feel seen and respected, teaching them to value meaningful communication above the constant distraction of digital noise. 

Explain Your Choices Aloud 

It is also beneficial for children to hear the reasoning behind these choices. A parent saying, ‘I will reply to this message later because our conversation is more important right now,’ makes the family’s value system explicit. This practice turns a simple action into a teaching moment, helping children to understand that focused conversation is not merely about politeness, but is a clear expression of respect and love. 

Spiritual Insight 

The Etiquette of Presence 

In Islam, being attentive and respectful in gatherings is a highly valued trait. This principle extends to our family life, where giving our full presence to one another is an act of sincerity that is honoured by Allah Almighty. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Mujadilah (58), Verse 11: 

‘ O you who are believers, when it is said to you: “Make space for each other in the gatherings”, then try to accommodate each other; (and conversely) Allah (Almighty) shall accommodate you (with His mercy); and when it is said to you: “Arise (to do good)”, then enable yourselves (to do that good); (and in return) Allah (Almighty) shall elevate those who are believers amongst you, and those people who are given the knowledge (of existential reality) in various stages...’ 

Good Character Begins at Home 

Prophetic guidance consistently highlights that the best of people are those who treat their families with the most kindness and respect. Giving our loved ones our full, uninterrupted attention is a fundamental aspect of good character and a reflection of strong faith. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, 1162, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The most perfect of the believers in faith are those with the best character, and the best of you are those who are best to their women (families).’ 

Building Bonds Through Attentiveness 

By consistently placing conversations before notifications, parents actively model respect, love, and presence. This practice does more than just strengthen family bonds; it teaches children a timeless truth that meaningful relationships are built with listening hearts, not buzzing phones.