What small changes in daily routine can help me feel more emotionally present without quitting devices entirely? 

Parenting Perspective 

It is entirely possible to be an emotionally present parent without completely abandoning your devices. The key lies in making small, conscious adjustments to your daily routine that consistently signal to your child that they are valued and heard. 

Create Device ‘Pause Points’ 

Decide on a few specific moments in the day that will become automatic ‘device pause points’. This could be the instant your child walks into the room or the moment they begin to speak to you. These small but deliberate pauses send a powerful message that your primary attention belongs to them, not to your screen. 

Introduce Short, Screen-Free Rituals 

Rather than attempting an unrealistic full-day digital detox, focus on creating consistent, screen-free pockets of time. This could be sharing breakfast together, making a nightly dua as a family, or having a dedicated chat after school. Even a five-minute window of completely uninterrupted focus can have a profound and lasting emotional impact. 

Practise Mindful Device Use 

Try to be more mindful in your own device use. Before unlocking your phone, pause for a second and ask yourself, ‘Why am I picking this up right now?’. Aim to complete your specific task and then put the phone down, rather than falling into a pattern of aimless scrolling. Physically placing your phone in another room during meals or playtime is a simple but effective way to remove the temptation. 

When these small changes become part of your daily rhythm, your child learns an important lesson: that while technology has its place, it never takes priority over them. This balance builds a deep sense of emotional safety without requiring you to make extreme or unsustainable sacrifices. 

Spiritual Insight 

These intentional shifts are not just about effective parenting; they are a reflection of the deep Islamic value of being fully present with those Allah has entrusted to our care. Just as prayer requires a focused heart, our family interactions are enriched by the same quality of attention. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Mu’minoon (23), Verses 1–2: 

‘Indeed, success is for the believers; those people who are focused in their prayers with true humility…‘ 

This reminds us that a humble and present heart is the foundation of a true connection with our Creator in prayer. This same principle applies to our worldly relationships; true connection requires our full presence. 

It is recorded in Musnad Ahmad, Hadith 684, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘When he spoke to a person, he would turn his whole body towards them.’ 

This beautiful description of the Prophet’s ﷺ manners teaches us that offering someone our undivided attention is a profound sign of respect. This physical act of turning towards someone reflects a prophetic character that values the person in front of you above all else. 

By pausing to engage sincerely and creating these small, sacred pockets of connection, you not only strengthen your child’s trust but also embody a beautiful Sunnah. Over time, these mindful acts become both a form of worship and a deep source of emotional security for your child.