What can parents do if teens roll their eyes at Islamic reminders given through digital platforms? 

Parenting Perspective 

Understand the Reaction, Not Just the Behaviour 

When a teenager rolls their eyes at a digital Islamic reminder, it is often a reaction to the method of delivery, not a rejection of faith itself. A parent should try not to see it as a sign of disrespect, but as a signal that the reminders may feel repetitive or forced. By staying calm and not overreacting, a parent can keep the door of communication open for a more productive conversation. 

Make Reminders Relatable and Interactive 

Instead of constantly forwarding generic lectures, a parent can involve their teen in finding content that resonates with them, such as short video clips or podcasts. It is also powerful to make the reminders personal and relevant to their life. For example, ‘I saw this hadith today and it reminded me of the kind way you handled that situation with your friend.’ When reminders feel practical, they are more likely to be appreciated. 

Lead by a Sincere Example 

The most powerful reminder is not what a parent sends to their teen’s phone, but what the teen observes in their parent’s life. If they see their parents sincerely practising dhikr or using their own devices for beneficial content, they will naturally develop more respect for the topic. A quiet, consistent, and lived example is always more persuasive than a digital nudge. 

Spiritual Insight 

Invite with Wisdom and Gentleness 

The Quran commands believers to call others to the path of Allah with wisdom and gentle instruction, not with force or in a way that causes annoyance. This applies especially within the family, where kindness is paramount. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Nahal (16), Verse 125: 

‘Invite (people) to (follow) the (prescribed) pathways of your Sustainer with wisdom, and polite enlightened direction, and only argue with them in the politest manner…’ 

Make Things Easy, Not Difficult 

The prophetic approach to guidance was always to make things easy for people and to give them glad tidings, not to repel them. Reminders, whether digital or otherwise, should aim to inspire hope and connection, not resistance. 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, 636, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Make things easy and do not make things difficult, give glad tidings and do not repel.’ 

Gentle Seeds of Reflection 

By understanding the reasons behind a teen’s reaction, making reminders more relatable, and modelling sincerity, parents can transform these awkward moments into gentle seeds of reflection. This teaches them over time that faith is not something to be imposed through a screen, but is something to be lived with wisdom, love, and balance.