In today’s digital age, managing screen time has become one of the most challenging aspects of parenting. From educational tools to entertainment, technology is everywhere. For Muslim parents, this challenge comes with an additional responsibility: ensuring that the content children consume aligns with Islamic values. It’s not just about limiting screen time but about making sure that what they engage with is beneficial for both their worldly life and their Akhirah (Hereafter).
Here are some practical ways to navigate screen time with your kids while upholding Islamic principles and fostering a balanced relationship with technology.
Islam encourages moderation in all aspects of life, and the same principle can be applied to screen time. Establish clear and consistent limits on how much time your child can spend on screens each day. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no more than two hours of recreational screen time per day for children over the age of two, and no screen time for children under two years old.
From an Islamic perspective, the concept of “mizan” or balance is essential. Allah (SWT) says in the Quran:
“And He has raised the heaven and imposed the balance, that you not transgress within the balance.” (Surah Ar-Rahman, 55:7-8)
Encourage your children to fill their time with a variety of activities—prayer, physical play, reading, and family interactions—so that screen time becomes just one part of a well-rounded day.
While screen time should be limited, the quality of the content your children consume is even more important. Make sure that the media they engage with is halal, beneficial, and aligned with Islamic values. There are plenty of educational apps, videos, and websites that provide positive content and teach Islamic principles in an engaging way.
Look for apps that teach Quran recitation, Islamic stories, or Arabic. Islamic cartoon series, like The Stories of the Prophets, can teach valuable life lessons through storytelling. Ensure that whatever your child watches promotes good character, compassion, and respect for others—core values of Islam.
Not all screen time is created equal. Interactive screen time, such as educational apps or games that encourage learning and problem-solving, is generally better than passive activities like watching TV or YouTube videos for hours.
You can introduce Islamic apps that engage your child in activities like memorizing duas, learning about the pillars of Islam, or participating in virtual quizzes on Islamic knowledge. These not only make screen time educational but also nurture their spiritual development.
Interactive screen time can be a way to build their Islamic identity while learning practical life skills.
In today’s world, it’s easy for children to stumble upon content that is inappropriate or contrary to Islamic values. Be vigilant about what your children are watching and engaging with online. Use parental control tools to filter out inappropriate content and apps, but also engage in regular discussions with your kids about what they see online.
Teach them to evaluate media critically through an Islamic lens. For example, if they see something that contradicts Islamic teachings (like immodest dress or disrespectful behavior), explain why it goes against your values. Involve them in conversations about what’s right and wrong according to the Quran and Sunnah.
Allah (SWT) says in the Quran:
“O you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones.” (Surah At-Tahrim, 66:6)
By teaching your children to be mindful of what they watch, you’re helping them protect themselves from negative influences.
Children often mimic their parents’ behavior, so it’s crucial that you also model healthy screen habits. If they see you scrolling on your phone for hours or watching TV during meal times, they’ll likely adopt the same habits. Instead, demonstrate moderation by limiting your own screen time, especially when engaging with them.
Establish screen-free zones, like the dinner table or during family gatherings, and stick to them. Encourage more family activities that don’t involve screens, such as outdoor play, board games, or reading together.
Remember, your actions speak louder than your words. When you show a balanced approach to technology, your children will follow suit.
One of the downsides of excessive screen time is that it can easily lead children (and adults!) to forget their daily obligations, including Salah. It’s important to set a routine that prioritizes prayer times over screen time. Create a family schedule that includes breaks for Salah, especially during Dhuhr and Asr when kids might be at home after school.
Encourage your children to take regular breaks from screens and spend time in dhikr (remembrance of Allah), reading Quran, or engaging in other forms of worship. This helps them understand that their relationship with Allah (SWT) is their priority, and everything else comes second.
Children often lose track of time when using screens, which can lead to hours spent on devices without even realizing it. Islam teaches us the value of time and warns us against wasting it. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
“There are two blessings which many people lose: (They are) health and free time for doing good.” (Bukhari)
Help your children develop time management skills by setting specific time blocks for screen use, study, Salah, and play. This balance will help them become more disciplined in their use of time, a crucial life skill that aligns with Islamic teachings.
Spending too much time on screens can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which can have long-term negative effects on children’s health. Islam encourages physical activity, as it promotes good health and well-being. The Prophet (PBUH) himself engaged in physical activities such as horseback riding, swimming, and archery.
Encourage your children to spend more time outdoors, whether it’s playing sports, going for a walk, or simply enjoying nature. This will not only reduce their screen time but also improve their physical and mental well-being. Make outdoor activities a family event, so they see it as a fun and valuable part of their day.
Navigating screen time for your children while maintaining Islamic values may seem challenging, but with the right strategies, you can ensure a healthy balance. By setting boundaries, prioritizing beneficial content, modeling healthy habits, and integrating Islamic principles, you can help your children use technology in a way that is both educational and spiritually enriching.
Remember, it’s not about avoiding technology altogether, but about teaching your children how to use it wisely and in line with their faith. With a thoughtful approach, screen time can become a tool for growth rather than a distraction.