What practical offline activities help reduce screen dependency? 

Parenting Perspective 

Building Bonds Through Offline Activities 

Filling your child’s day with meaningful, stimulating activities offline is one of the best ways to reduce their dependence on screens. It also builds a strong bond between you and your child, showing them that fun and connection do not always come from a device. 

Creating a Routine with Outdoor Play and Crafts 

Start with simple changes. Create a daily routine that includes outdoor play, crafts, helping with cooking or small chores. Nature walks are wonderful for children of any age, they get fresh air, exercise and their imaginations are sparked in ways a video can never match. 

Using a ‘Boredom Basket’ and Planning Family Time 

Keep a ‘boredom basket’ ready with books, puzzles or art supplies so your child can reach for something creative instead of a gadget. Plan regular family moments like board games, gardening together or meal prep as a team. Support your child in developing hobbies that truly interest them, like painting, playing a sport or learning an instrument. 

Praising Offline Choices 

Praise them when they choose these activities, even for a short time. Your encouragement reminds them they do not need a screen to feel happy, calm and entertained. Over time, these small habits show your child that life offline can be just as rich and joyful, and that spending time with family, nature and their own creativity brings a special kind of peace. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us that living with balance and moderation is part of honouring the blessings Allah Almighty has given us. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Furqan (25), Verse 67: 

‘And those who, when they spend, are neither extravagant nor stingy but are ever, between that, [justly] moderate. ‘

This Ayah reminds us that balance applies to how we spend our time too, not swinging between endless screens or cutting them out without wisdom. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6412, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘There are two blessings which many people waste: health and free time. ‘

Talk with your child about how offline activities protect these blessings, keeping our minds fresh, our bodies strong, and our hearts open for remembering Allah Almighty. Make Dua together: O Allah, bless our time and help us use it well. Celebrate small offline moments: reading a story before bed, watering plants, or playing in the garden can all be acts of gratitude when done with intention. When your child sees that family life is active, connected, and joyful without screens, they learn that true contentment does not come from constant entertainment but from simple moments of Sabr, Tawakkul, and connection with the world Allah Almighty created, InshaAllah.