Parenting Perspective 

It is a common concern for parents that taking private time for their marriage might make their children feel excluded. However, the opposite is often true; children feel more secure when they witness their parents actively nurturing their relationship. Setting aside a brief period, such as ten minutes after Maghrib, can be managed in a way that feels safe, balanced, and reassuring for the entire family. 

Create a Predictable Routine 

Integrate this time into the daily household rhythm by clearly communicating it as a regular event. For instance, you could say, ‘After Maghrib, Mama and Baba will have their tea and a short chat’. When this is presented as a predictable part of the day, children are less likely to see it as rejection and more as a natural, consistent activity. This approach also subtly teaches them the important lesson that relationships need dedicated care and attention to flourish. 

Provide Meaningful Activities 

Children are more receptive to boundaries when they are guided towards an engaging alternative. During these ten minutes, you can prepare a set of simple and consistent activities for them to enjoy, for example: 

• Drawing or colouring a favourite picture. 

• Listening to a short audiobook or nasheed. 

• Completing a simple tidy-up task with a timer. 

• Writing down one happy thing that happened during their day. 

These activities foster small habits of independence while keeping them happily occupied. 

Reconnect Before and After 

It is important to connect warmly with your children immediately before and after your dedicated time. A brief chat or praying Maghrib together beforehand sets a positive tone. When your ten minutes are over, re-engage with affection, such as a smile, a hug, or asking about their activity. This simple framing reassures them that your short break is not a withdrawal of love, but a healthy practice that contributes to a calm and stable family atmosphere. 

Ultimately, protecting this time is an investment in your children’s emotional stability. When parents prioritise their bond, children sense the security it brings. Far from being left out, they benefit immensely from living in a home where the love and respect between parents remain strong. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, the bond between a husband and wife is considered the bedrock of a harmonious family. By setting aside ten minutes for connection after Maghrib, you are actively upholding a principle that reinforces the mercy and affection central to your home. 

The Quranic View on Marital Tranquillity 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Rome (30), Verse 21: 

‘ And amongst His Signs (of the infinite truth) are that He (Allah Almighty) created for you, your (matrimonial) partners from your species so that you may find tranquillity from them; and designed between you love, tolerance and kindness…’ 

This verse reminds us that the love and calm found between spouses is a divine sign. Protecting this bond directly nurtures the environment in which children are raised. 

The Prophetic Emphasis on Compassion 

It is recorded in Mishkaat Al Masaabih, Hadith 3240, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘A believer must not hate a believing woman; if he dislikes one trait of hers, he will be pleased with another.’ 

This teaching highlights that a lasting marriage is built on compassion and patience, qualities that require intentional time and care from both partners. When parents honour their bond, children witness mercy in action. Protecting these ten minutes is therefore an act of worship as well as parenting wisdom, ensuring the home remains a place of calm where children learn love, balance, and respect from their parents’ example.