What is the healthiest way to encourage children to listen to online khutbahs with focus instead of distraction? 

Parenting Perspective 

Set the Right Atmosphere for Listening 

If an online khutbah is played like background noise, children will naturally treat it casually. Parents can create a sense of occasion by pausing all other activities, gathering the family, and sitting attentively. Framing it as, ‘This is our special time to listen and learn together,’ helps children to associate the khutbah with respect and focus. 

Keep the Sessions Manageable 

Long sermons can be difficult for children to follow. A parent could choose shorter, more engaging talks or listen to a longer one in parts, pausing to discuss the main points. Asking a simple question like, ‘What was one thing that stood out to you?’ makes the session interactive and encourages active listening, ensuring the child is not just hearing the words passively. 

Model Sincere Engagement 

If a parent is multitasking while a khutbah is playing, their child will learn to do the same. However, if the parent listens attentively, perhaps even taking notes, it sends a clear message that this is an important activity. Sharing a personal reflection, such as, ‘That reminder about patience really made me think,’ models sincerity and shows how the khutbah’s message is relevant to everyday life. 

Spiritual Insight 

Answering the Call to Remembrance 

The Quranic command to leave aside worldly distractions for the Jumu’ah prayer and sermon establishes a clear principle: when it is time to remember Allah, we should give it our full and undivided attention. This applies whether we are in a mosque or listening at home. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Jumu’ah (62), Verse 9: 

‘ O those of you who are believers, when you are summoned for prayer (by the calling of Azaan) on the day of Friday; then hasten towards the remembrance of Allah (Almighty); and leave your businesses (for those moments); for this is more advantageous for you, if only you could understand.‘ 

The Importance of Silence and Focus 

The prophetic tradition places immense emphasis on maintaining silence and focus during the khutbah. Even the smallest distraction or idle word can diminish the value and reward of listening, highlighting the importance of attentive adab. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, 1110, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘When you say to your companion “Be quiet” on Friday while the Imam is delivering the khutbah, you have engaged in idle talk.’ 

Listening as an Act of Worship 

By creating a focused environment, making the content manageable, and modelling attentiveness, parents can help their children to treat online khutbahs with the dignity they deserve. This teaches them over time that listening well is not just a matter of courtesy, but is a profound act of worship that nurtures one’s iman.