How do I reconnect as a family when screens have replaced most of our shared time? 

Parenting Perspective 

When screens have quietly become the default way your family spends time together, the thought of reconnecting without them can feel daunting. The goal is not to suddenly erase technology, but to gently and intentionally reintroduce moments where the family interacts directly with each other, and genuinely enjoys it. 

Start with One Small, Consistent Ritual 

Do not try to overhaul your entire week at once. Instead, pick just one small time slot and dedicate it to being together without devices. This could be a Sunday breakfast, a short evening walk after dinner, or a Friday night board game. Keeping it short and manageable at first makes it feel achievable and less intimidating, increasing the chances that it will stick. 

Replace Screens with Immediately Appealing Activities 

To make the transition easier, replace the passive engagement of a screen with something that is actively and immediately appealing. Lively board games, collaborative cooking, or a fun family competition can create an atmosphere of shared joy and laughter, making the absence of screens less noticeable and the time together more desirable. 

Use Screens as a Bridge to Connection 

If your family is used to watching shows together, you do not have to stop completely. Instead, use that shared screen time as a bridge to further connection. Afterwards, you can discuss the plot, act out funny scenes, or even cook a meal inspired by something you watched. This simple follow-up shifts the dynamic from passive viewing to active engagement. 

Protect Your ‘Family-First’ Time 

Once you have established your new ritual, explain to the family that this is a protected “family-first” slot, and then hold that boundary with gentle consistency. Over time, what might initially feel like a forced event will transform into a natural and cherished habit that everyone, including the children, looks forward to. 

By focusing on replacing rather than just removing, you can rebuild your shared family moments without unnecessary resistance or guilt. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam places immense value on maintaining family ties (silat ar-rahim) and being truly present with one another, seeing these as acts of worship that bring great blessing. 

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 affection (mawaddah) and mercy (rahmah) that Allah has placed in family bonds are divine signs, and they are best nurtured through spending quality, connected time together. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6065, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘A Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand the Muslims are safe.’ 

This hadith, in its broader meaning, teaches us that a believer’s presence should be a source of peace and security for others. Creating a warm, connected, and emotionally safe home environment is a beautiful expression of this principle. By slowly reclaiming time from screens and filling it with shared, meaningful moments, you restore the affection and mercy that strengthen family bonds in both worldly and spiritual terms.