How to Be Present With Each Child When Life Is Rushed 

Parenting Perspective 

A Longing for Undivided Attention 

When a child says this, what they are really expressing is a longing for undivided attention. It is not always about the amount of time, but the quality of presence. In a busy household, especially with multiple children, it is easy for one child to feel unseen even if you are meeting their physical needs. 

Practise Intentional Presence 

A helpful step is to practise intentional presence. This can be as simple as pausing what you are doing for a few seconds, making eye contact, and repeating back a few of your child’s words to show you were truly listening. Even if you cannot extend the conversation in that moment, acknowledging them with your eyes and words communicates that they matter. 

Create Small Rituals of Connection 

It also helps to create small rituals of connection that are predictable. For example, a few minutes at bedtime, a shared chore, or a short walk to the shop together. These do not need to be long or elaborate, but they give each child the reassurance that they will have your attention without competition. 

Consistency Matters More Than Length 

When life feels rushed, you may feel guilty for not giving more but remember that children value consistency more than length. A child who knows that even in a busy day, their parent will pause to really look at them, feels secure. Being deliberate in these micro-moments can soften feelings of unfairness and build a sense of being equally cherished. 

Spiritual Insight 

Fear Allah and Be Just With Your Children 

Presence and fairness between children are part of Amanah.  

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1623, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Fear Allah and be just with your children.’  

Justice is not only about material gifts but also about emotional attention and the way love is expressed. 

Man Is a Witness Against Himself 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Qiyamah (75), Verses 14–15: 

‘Not at all, (every part of the anatomy of) mankind shall be called as an eye- witness upon themselves. Even though he may (attempt) to present excuses.’  

This Verse reminds us that deep inside, every person, even a child, knows when they are seen and valued, regardless of explanations or justifications. Our children witness our presence or absence more keenly than we realise. 

By showing fairness in the small acts of looking, listening, and acknowledging, you teach your child that their voice has worth. This nurtures their self-respect and builds their trust in you as a parent. Balancing presence does not require more hours, but a conscious effort to align your actions with the Prophetic example of justice and mercy. In this way, even in the rush of life, your children will know that your love is never divided.