How do I support my child in staying engaged with a book when they are used to the instant “like” rush from social media? 

Parenting Perspective 

Social media provides a constant stream of fast, bite-sized rewards that can make the slow, deep engagement of reading feel difficult. The key is to bridge that gap by making reading an accessible, enjoyable, and rewarding experience in its own right. 

Acknowledge the Shift in Stimulation 

Begin by explaining that reading offers a different kind of enjoyment. Let them know it is normal to feel a little restless at first when moving from a fast-paced app to a quiet book, and that the ability to focus is a skill that improves with gentle practice. 

Start with the Right Kind of Books 

Set them up for success by choosing books that genuinely match their interests. Graphic novels, illustrated fact books, or short, action-packed stories can serve as an excellent bridge from high-stimulation digital content to longer, more traditional narratives. As their attention span grows, you can gradually introduce books with more depth. 

Create an Inviting Reading Environment 

Designate a comfortable, distraction-free area specifically for reading. Turning off other devices and creating a cosy spot with a blanket or a warm drink can help. Making reading a shared family activity at certain times also associates it with warmth and connection. 

Break it into Manageable Sessions 

Start with shorter, focused reading periods, perhaps just 10 or 15 minutes at a time, followed by a break. You can slowly extend these sessions as their ability to stay engaged improves. Celebrate their progress and chat about their favourite parts of the story to keep them invested. 

By making reading inviting, relevant, and achievable, you help your child replace the fleeting “like” rush with a richer, more sustained form of engagement. 

Spiritual Insight 

In the Islamic tradition, patience and focus are qualities that strengthen both the heart and the mind. Slower, more mindful activities like reading are valued because they encourage reflection and allow the soul to absorb beneficial knowledge. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Zumar (39), Verse 9: 

‘Say (O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ): “Can there ever be parity between those people that have knowledge and those people that do not have knowledge?”…‘ 

This reminds us that real value lies in the pursuit and retention of deep knowledge, which requires both patience and dedication. 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, Hadith 1381, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Whoever follows a path in pursuit of knowledge, Allah will make a path to Paradise easy for him.’ 

This teaches us that consistent efforts to gain beneficial knowledge, even in small, steady steps like reading a book, are deeply loved and rewarded by Allah. 

By encouraging your child to enjoy reading, you are helping them to nurture patience, deepen their thinking, and develop a love for knowledge, qualities that will serve their spiritual and worldly success.