Eman Sakina

Children are easily influenced by their surroundings. These days, it is difficult to expose our children to an ideal Islamic environment given the influences from media, friends, and even other members of the family. With television, radio, Internet, and forms of media mostly touting un-Islamic values, it is up to parents and adults close to the children to set the correct example.

Friday Musings

It is impossible to shield our children from all the negative forces that can shape their minds and, ultimately, their behavior. However, by our example and showing them better options, we can set them on the true path, which is to obey the commandments of Allah and Prophet Muhammad.

Shifting children from television/phones to Islam involves a thoughtful approach that balances modern entertainment with religious education, fostering a spiritual environment that naturally encourages Islamic values.

Here are some tips you may want to follow in helping your children grow up with Islamic values.

Treat them kindly: Kindness begets kindness. If we are kind to our children, they in turn will show kindness to others. Prophet Mohammad was the best example of being kind to children.

Teach them examples of heroes: Relate incidents about the real heroes of Islam such as Hazrat Ali and other Prophets and illustrious Sahabah. Tell them how Muslim leaders brought a real peaceful change in the world and won the hearts of Muslims and non-Muslims alike. Do not let them be influenced by comic book superheroes.

Go out as a family: Take family trips rather than allowing your children to always go out only with their friends. Let your children be around family and friends from whom you want them to pick up their values. Always remember that your children will become who they are around most of the time.

Praise your children: Praise is a powerful tool with children, especially in front of others. Children feel a sense of pride when their parents praise them and will be keen to perform other good deeds. However, praise must be limited to Islamic deeds and deeds of moral value.

Avoid humiliating your children in front of others: Children make mistakes. Sometimes, these mistakes occur in their efforts to please parents. If you are unhappy with your children, tell them in private. Explain to them the importance of utilizing the time for useful things instead of surfing the internet on smartphones or watching television the whole day. Explain to them the health hazards of doing so.

Inculcate a sense of responsibility in them: Have faith in their abilities to perform tasks. Give them chores to do in line with their age. Convince them that they are performing an important function and you will find them eager to help you out again.

Perform salaah and other acts of Ibadah with them: Wake them up for Fajr and make Ibadah as a family. Talk to them about the rewards of salaah so that it does not feel like a burden to them.

Good Company: A child blossoms with good company. Watch your child’s friends and company.

Lead by example: Children observe their parents closely. Your speech and conduct should be an inspiration and guidance for your children.

Adopt all possible means to make them upright and practicing Muslims: Surround your home with Islamic art, calligraphy, and even soft nasheeds (hymn) playing in the background. Replace some TV time with Islamic videos, cartoons, or stories that engagingly teach Islamic morals.

Limit television time by setting specific hours for watching TV and make sure these are followed consistently. Use the spare time for Islamic activities.

Reward System: Implement a reward system where children earn points for completing Islamic activities like memorizing a surah, and these points can be redeemed for limited TV time or other privileges.

Engage in outdoor activities that reflect Islamic principles, like charity work, nature walks to appreciate Allah’s creation, or simply playing sports to stay healthy as encouraged in Islam.

Discuss how Islam emphasizes moderation in all things, including entertainment, and how excessive TV watching can lead to neglecting important aspects of their spiritual and personal development.

Changing habits takes time: Be patient and consistent in your efforts to reduce TV time and increase Islamic learning.

Open Communication: Keep the lines of communication open. Listen to your children's concerns and preferences, and work together to find solutions that meet both their needs and your religious goals.

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Transitioning your children from television to Islam is not about eliminating TV, but rather about finding a balance that allows them to enjoy modern entertainment while deepening their understanding and practice of Islam. By creating a nurturing Islamic environment, involving them in engaging activities, and leading by example, you can help your children develop a strong, lasting connection to their faith.