What is a way to involve them in reminding me when I overuse my device? 

Parenting Perspective 

Inviting your child to help you with your own screen limits can be a powerful way to model humility and teamwork. It transforms the dynamic from parent-versus-child into a shared family commitment. 

Invite Them as Partners, Not Policers 

Instead of framing it as them catching you doing something wrong, invite your child to be your partner. You could say, ‘We are all learning to use our phones in a healthy way. Can you help me remember if I am on my phone during our family time?’ This shifts the tone to mutual accountability. 

Create a Friendly Signal 

Agree on a simple and non-confrontational signal they can use to remind you. This might be a fun code word, a gentle tap on the arm, or a special hand gesture. Using a light-hearted cue avoids any feelings of confrontation and keeps the interaction positive. 

Celebrate the Reminder 

When your child does remind you, it is crucial that you respond with sincere gratitude, not defensiveness. Saying, ‘You are right, thank you for the good reminder,’ reinforces that their input is valued and effective. This shows them that accountability is a healthy part of your relationship. 

By giving them a role in helping you live by your own tech boundaries, you model humility, self-awareness, and the idea that self-improvement is an ongoing process. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that accepting sincere advice (nasiha), especially when it is for our own betterment, is a sign of humility and wisdom. This applies even when the reminder comes from someone younger than us. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Asr (103), Verses 2–3: 

‘Indeed, mankind is in loss, Except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience…’ 

This shows that gently and mutually reminding one another of what is right is a protection against loss and a way to strengthen each other in faith. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 55, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The religion is sincerity.’We said, ‘To whom?’ He said, ‘To Allah, His Book, His Messenger, the leaders of the Muslims and their common folk.’ 

This includes giving and accepting gentle reminders from those closest to us, including our children, when it helps us to stay on the right path. 

By letting your child remind you, and responding with gratitude instead of pride, you teach them that being corrected is not a weakness; it is a strength that builds trust and mutual respect.