How to Handle Interruptions During One-on-One Time 

Parenting Perspective 

Maintain Clear Boundaries 

When you set aside special time for one child, interruptions from siblings can feel discouraging, both for you and for the child you are focusing on. It is natural to want each child to feel valued, but equally important to maintain clear boundaries so your attention is not constantly disrupted. 

Prepare Children in Advance 

One effective approach is to prepare children in advance. Let them know in simple words, ‘I will be with your brother for ten minutes, then it will be your turn.’ This sets an expectation of fairness and teaches patience. For younger children, having a tangible marker such as a timer or a short activity to occupy them can reduce interruptions. 

Stay Calm but Consistent 

When a sibling does interrupt, stay calm but consistent. You might acknowledge them briefly, ‘I hear you, but right now it is your sister’s time. I will come to you next.’ By acknowledging their presence without giving in, you show them they are not ignored, but that respect for each person’s moment is important. 

Follow Through With the Waiting Child 

After the focused time ends, make sure to follow through with the waiting child, even if only for a few minutes. Consistency is what builds trust. Over time, children learn that they do not need to compete for your attention because you are committed to giving it fairly. 

Boundaries Are Lessons in Respect 

Boundaries in this way are not rejections. They are lessons in respect, patience, and trust. When handled calmly and consistently, they reassure children that love is abundant, even if attention is divided at different times. 

Spiritual Insight 

Render Trusts With Justice 

Islam places great importance on justice and fairness between children. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Nisa (4), Verse 58: 

‘Indeed, Allah (Almighty) commands you to execute all trusts to their rightful owners; and when you (are asked to) judge between people, that you should judge with justice...’  

Parents carry the trust of caring for each child fairly, and maintaining balance in attention is part of that responsibility. 

Fear Allah and Be Just With Your Children 

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

‘Fear Allah and be just with your children.’ 

This Hadith reminds parents that fairness is not only about material gifts but also about emotional presence and attention. By consciously giving time to each child, and by managing interruptions with kindness and justice, you are following this prophetic guidance. 

When you calmly enforce boundaries while ensuring each child receives their share of attention, you model fairness and mercy together. This allows your children to feel secure in your love, and to learn that fairness in family life is a reflection of Islamic values.