In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, it feels like our screens are competing for our attention, often at the expense of our family members and children. Whether it’s social media, video games, or binge-watching the latest series, screens are a big part of the daily life of most Muslim Americans. So how do we put the screens down and mindfully connect with our kids? Does it really make a difference? How do we find a healthy balance?

The Importance of Family Time

Family time is not only invaluable, but rather a clear Sunnah in our prophetic tradition. Our beloved Prophet, peace and blessing be upon him, made daily efforts to connect, share experiences, and create memories with the members of his household. Today,more and more studies show that, whether it’s sitting down for a meal together, playing board games, or going for a walk, these moments help reinforce emotional bonds and encourage communication within a family unit. In a world that can often feel isolating or overwhelming, meaningful family time is one of the most important things we can do to nurture relationships with our closest loved ones.

Narrated Al-Aswad:

That he asked `Aisha “What did the Prophet use to do in his house?” She replied, “He used to keep himself busy serving his family and when it was the time for prayer he would go for it.”

حَدَّثَنَا آدَمُ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا شُعْبَةُ، قَالَ حَدَّثَنَا الْحَكَمُ، عَنْ إِبْرَاهِيمَ، عَنِ الأَسْوَدِ، قَالَ سَأَلْتُ عَائِشَةَ مَا كَانَ النَّبِيُّ صلى الله عليه وسلم يَصْنَعُ فِي بَيْتِهِ قَالَتْ كَانَ يَكُونُ فِي مِهْنَةِ أَهْلِهِ ـ تَعْنِي خِدْمَةَ أَهْلِهِ ـ فَإِذَا حَضَرَتِ الصَّلاَةُ خَرَجَ إِلَى الصَّلاَةِ‏.‏

Sahih al-Bukhari 676  Book 10, Hadith 70 Sahih al-Bukhari 676

So, does it really make a difference? YES, and here is why;

Strengthened relationships:

Bonding activities help create a deeper sense of trust and understanding between family members. This is especially important in a world of mis-information and degradation of the importance of the role of the family in decision making.

Mental and emotional health:

Quality time provides a sense of belonging and support, reducing feelings of loneliness or isolation, which can be a direct result of living in a society that is NOT Muslim majority or that propagates values outside of Islam.

Improved communication:

Open, in-person conversations help develop empathy, listening skills, and problem-solving abilities, which are all crucial components to strengthening communication skills.

Building traditions:

Our deen is already packed full of daily family rituals like salah, attending the masjid, and eating together as a family. Whether you have a family game night, hiking day, or sports outing, being present and engaged with your children is key to them seeing your tradition as a time for real connection.

How do we find a healthy screen time balance? 

Set Screen Time Limits

Establish daily or weekly limits for non-work-related screen time. Schedule a family meeting to set those limits for each family member and frame it as a family goal and norm. The Family Link app is a great tool for more structured limits for younger family members on Android devices.

Create Screen-Free Zones

Designate certain areas of the home, like the dinner table or bedrooms, as screen-free zones. This encourages meaningful conversations and allows everyone to focus on each other without distractions, as every room serves a specific purpose.

Schedule Regular Family Time

Make family activities a priority. Whether it’s cooking together, playing outdoor games, or read-alouds, make sure you’re carving out intentional time to be together without distractions. 20 very intentional minutes of connection time is worth more than hours just being in the same place at the same time.

Use Technology to Your Advantage

Technology doesn’t have to be the enemy. Use it to bring your family closer. Watch impactful movies together, play multiplayer games, or even video chat with distant relatives. Just be mindful of how much time you spend on these activities, and frame the usage of technology as a means to meeting your goals as a family, not just for entertainment.

Lead by Example

As a parent or family leader, set a positive example by limiting your own screen time and showing the value of in-person connections. Kids and family members are more likely to follow suit if they see you prioritizing family time over screen time. Remember, a child’s behavior is often a reflection of the behavior of the adults in the family.

Encourage Outdoor and Active Activities

Try to get outside! Whether it’s a walk in the park, a bike ride, or a game of catch in the yard, outdoor activities are a great way to get away from screens and bond as a family. The fresh air and physical activity are also beneficial for overall well-being.

Conclusion

In a world that’s constantly connected, it’s more important than ever to be intentional about our time with our familes. Although it may feel like we are competing with the constant lure of our screens, we can train ourselves to be mindful and set boundaries, and find a healthy balance. Technology can enhance our lives, but it’s the time spent with the people we love that truly enriches our family units.

Ultimately, the goal is not to eliminate screen time but to ensure it doesn’t replace the essential face-to-face moments that build strong, healthy Muslim family relationships. By making family a priority and setting boundaries around screen time, we can foster a nurturing environment where everyone feels connected, supported, and present. 

Abu Mas‘ūd (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (may Allah’s peace and blessings be upon him) said:”If a man spends something on his family, seeking reward from Allah for it, it will be recorded for him as charity.”

May the intentional time you spend with your family be recorded as such. 

What do you think? Any family traditions or strategies you use to balance screen time?