What does Islam teach us about moderation and how can I apply that to screen time? 

Parenting Perspective 

From a parenting perspective, moderation is about finding the healthy middle path between overuse and complete restriction. It means allowing screens to serve a beneficial purpose without letting them take over family life. In a modern home, this requires a clear-eyed recognition of both the benefits and the risks of technology. Too much restriction can make screens feel like a forbidden fruit, while unlimited access can negatively affect a child’s focus, sleep, and emotional regulation. 

Define the ‘Middle Path’ 

Start by defining clear boundaries around the ‘when’, ‘where’, and ‘why’ of screen use. For example, you might decide as a family that screens are welcome for learning, connecting with relatives, or for a shared family film night. At the same time, you can designate certain times and places as screen-free, such as at the dinner table, during prayer times, or in the hour before bed. This creates a clear and balanced framework. 

Involve Them in Maintaining Balance 

Consciously balance screen time with activities that nurture other parts of your child’s development, such as outdoor play, creative pursuits, family conversations, and acts of service. Crucially, involve your child in setting these limits so they feel respected and part of the process, rather than simply being controlled. The aim is to teach them through experience that screens are just one small part of a rich and fulfilling life, not the centre of it. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam calls us to live a life of balance and moderation (wasatiyyah), avoiding extremes in every area of our lives, from our spending and eating to how we use our time. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Aa’raaf (7), Verse 31: 

‘And eat and drink and do not be extravagant (wasteful), as indeed, He (Allah Almighty) does not like extravagance…’ 

This verse, while speaking directly about food and drink, establishes a universal principle of avoiding excess (israf). This applies beautifully to all modern habits, including our use of technology. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 4240, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The best of matters is the middle way.’ 

This profound teaching reminds us that finding a wise and balanced path is a mark of goodness in all aspects of our lives. By applying this principle to screen time, you are showing your child that moderation is not about deprivation, but about consciously creating space for what truly matters: our faith, our relationships, our learning, and our overall wellbeing.