Parenting Perspective 

Constant exposure to gaming advertisements can significantly shift a child’s perception of what ‘fun’ should look like. These advertisements often portray gaming as the ultimate form of excitement, filled with dazzling graphics, constant rewards, and endless stimulation. When children absorb these powerful messages, they may begin to see traditional, simple forms of play, such as drawing, building blocks, or outdoor games, as boring or less valuable. 

A Decreased Satisfaction with Simplicity 

Children may quickly lose interest in imaginative or unstructured play, coming to believe that it is not as rewarding as the flashy games they see advertised. This can make them more dependent on external stimulation rather than learning how to create their own joy and entertainment from simpler things. 

The Pressure for Constant Upgrades 

Gaming advertisements are often designed to push the idea that new versions, upgrades, or special accessories are necessary to have fun. 

• A child who is exposed to these advertisements may constantly demand the latest products, creating a sense of dissatisfaction with what they already have. 

The Impact on Social and Emotional Skills 

Simple, traditional play helps children to practise vital life skills, such as problem-solving, creativity, and cooperation with their peers. If they begin to abandon this in favour of screen-based excitement, their social development and their ability to be patient can weaken, as digital rewards are often instant while real-life play requires effort and negotiation. 

Helping Children to Value Balance 

Parents can help to guide their children by: 

• Setting clear and consistent screen-time limits while actively protecting time for simple, creative play. 

• Highlighting the fun and benefits of traditional games by joining in with them. 

• Explaining to them that advertisements are designed to sell products, not to define what true happiness is. 

This balanced approach can help children to appreciate both modern games and the timeless joy of simple, imaginative play. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches the virtues of moderation and gratitude, and it warns us against allowing worldly distractions to dominate our hearts. Constant exposure to gaming advertisements, with their relentless push for “more, newer, better,” can weaken a child’s ability to feel content with their small and simple blessings. 

A Reminder Against Excessive Distraction 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Takaathur (102), Verses 1-2: 

‘Are you diverted by the obsession of infinite (worldly wealth)? Until such time as you observe the place of your demise (on this Earth).’ 

This powerful verse reminds us that an endless pursuit of ‘more’ only serves to distract us from what truly matters in life and ultimately undermines our ability to feel content. 

The Prophet’s ﷺ Teaching on Moderation 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1051, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Richness is not an abundance of worldly goods; rather, true richness is the richness of the soul.’ 

This Hadith teaches us that true wealth and happiness are to be found in a state of inner contentment, not in the act of constantly acquiring more possessions. 

By teaching children the values of gratitude and moderation, parents can help them to see that happiness does not come only from new games or the latest purchases. Instead, true joy is to be found in appreciating simple blessings and using one’s time in meaningful ways that are pleasing to Allah Almighty. This perspective helps to anchor a child in their faith and protects them from being consumed by consumer-driven advertising.