How do I set ‘do not disturb’ blocks so children know when I will respond? 

Parenting Perspective 

Children often interrupt simply because they are unsure when they will next have their parent’s full attention. Setting clear ‘do not disturb’ times can help them learn patience without making them feel ignored. The key is to make these boundaries predictable and gentle, always pairing them with the reassurance that you will return to them at a specific time. 

Create Clear Visual or Verbal Signals 

Use a simple and consistent signal that your child can easily recognise. This could be a phrase such as, ‘I am in my focus time now, but I will be with you right after this’. For younger children, a visual cue, like a coloured card placed on your desk or door, can be very effective in helping them understand when you are unavailable. 

Pair the Boundary With a Promise 

Always give your child a time frame they can understand and trust, such as, ‘I will be finished in twenty minutes, and then we can talk properly’. Following through consistently is crucial for building their sense of security. If you do not keep your word, children are more likely to test the boundaries again in the future. 

Teach What Counts as an Emergency 

It is important to explain that emergencies are always an exception to the rule. Talk through some examples of what counts as a genuine emergency, such as an injury or a danger, so they know when it is right to interrupt and when they should wait patiently. 

Offer Connection Before and After 

Spend a few minutes of focused time with your child before you begin your ‘do not disturb’ block. This helps them to feel secure and prepared for the brief separation. Afterwards, make sure to follow up with your promised attention. This approach makes them feel included in the plan, rather than feeling pushed away. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam honours a balanced approach to life’s responsibilities. Parents must find time for worship, work, and family, and a crucial part of this is fulfilling promises and modelling self-discipline. Setting healthy and predictable boundaries is a reflection of justice and mercy in family life. 

Guidance on Fulfilling Promises 

The Quran praises the believers who are attentive to their trusts and their promises, linking this quality to their dedication to the prayer. This shows that keeping one’s word is a sign of a person of faith. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Mu’minoon (23), Verses 8-9: 

‘ And those people who are responsible in the execution of all matters entrusted to them and promised by them and those people that secure their prayers (from any frivolous thoughts).‘ 

This reminds us that keeping our promises and managing our time with discipline are qualities of a believer. 

The Importance of Keeping One’s Word 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that fulfilling a promise is a fundamental aspect of a Muslim’s character and a sign of true faith. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 33, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The signs of a hypocrite are three: when he speaks, he lies; when he makes a promise, he breaks it; and when he is entrusted, he betrays the trust.’ 

This hadith teaches us that fulfilling our promises, even small ones made to our children, is a matter of religious integrity, not just of convenience. 

By setting ‘do not disturb’ blocks with clarity and consistency, you are modelling the important values of integrity, time management, and fairness. Your children learn patience, respect for boundaries, and the deep comfort of knowing that your word can always be trusted.