Zafir Ahmad, Ahmadiyya Archive & Research Centre
Short attention spans & an alarming study
Parents today often face the challenge of dealing with children who struggle to concentrate. Smartphones, tablets and televisions are everywhere, constantly providing distractions. Many families wonder: How does too much screen time affect the development of our children? This article explains what a study says about this issue and how Islam helps parents set wise rules to ensure their children grow up healthy.
Children naturally have a short attention span, but today there are more distractions than ever before. Phones beep, televisions run in the background and tablets are always within reach. These stimuli can overwhelm children. Parents often notice that their children become more restless, get bored quickly and have little interest in books or conversations. This is particularly important for most Muslim families who, in accordance with Islamic teachings, value proper upbringing.
A study published in 2024 in the journal Early Child Development and Care was conducted by a team led by Shujin Zhou from Shanghai Normal University and Yan Li. This cross-sectional study involved 571 mothers of preschool children aged 3 to 6 years from seven public kindergartens in Shanghai, China. The parents reported how much time their children spent in front of screens each day. The results are alarming: More than one hour of screen time per day can cause problems. The children exhibited more hyperactivity, tantrums, and difficulties interacting with others. Researcher Shujin Zhou explains: “Videos and games overstimulate the children’s brains, leading to poor sleep and restlessness.”
The gift of sleep
Sleep is essential for children, as during sleep, the brain processes what they have learned during the day – language, social rules, or movement. Poor sleep makes children unfocused and irritable, which affects their learning and behavior. Islam views sleep as a gift from Allah. The Quran states: “And We made your sleep for rest” (Surah an-Naba’, Ch.78: V.10). Good sleep is a treasure that parents should protect – for the health and faith of their children.
Children who spend long hours in front of screens are often more restless. Fast-paced cartoons with loud sounds overwhelm them. They find it difficult to calm down, become angry more quickly, or get into more arguments. When they are accustomed to constant stimulation, they get bored without screens – a problem that parents can address with wise rules.
A solution
Islam teaches moderation in all things. The Holy Quran says: “We have made you a middle nation” (Surah al-Baqarah, Ch.2: V.144). Even though there are no direct rules for mobile phones, the responsibility lies with the parents.
The Prophet Muhammadsa said: “Everyone of you is a guardian and is responsible for his charges:” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 7138)
Parents should set clear boundaries, such as fixed screen times or a ban before bedtime, to protect their children. Evening screen time disrupts sleep. The bright light from devices blocks the sleep hormone melatonin. Children find it harder to fall asleep and are tired and impatient the next day. This affects their concentration and behavior – something that parents can avoid by banning media in the evening.
Here are the recommended screen times based on age:
Age (in years) | recommendation
0–3: Ideally no screen media, at most 30 minutes of audio media, regular viewing and reading of books.
3–6: At most 30 minutes in front of a screen, at most 45 minutes of audio media, regular viewing and reading of books.
6–9: At most 45–60 minutes of screen media, at most 60 minutes of audio media, regular reading or being read to.
9–12: At most 45–60 minutes per day.
12–16: At most 1–2 hours per day.
16–18: Set common rules for screen media use, with 2 hours per day as a guideline.
Now, I would like to mention some tips. Fixed bedtimes and calming rituals help children settle down. Therefore, you could: Reading aloud: A positive story before bedtime calms the children and stimulates their imagination and way of thinking. Stories convey values and create a soothing atmosphere.
Praying: Evening prayers or reciting Surahs like al-Ikhlas, al-Falaq, and an-Nas provide comfort and are a wonderful way to spiritually close the day. These Surahs offer protection and bring peace.
Conversations: Talking about the day strengthens the bond between parents and children and helps process the day’s emotions. A calm conversation before bed gives the children a sense of security and affection.
Screen alternatives
Regarding the question of what alternatives there are to screens, I would like to emphasise that parents should invest their time. Young children need a lot of attention and time. In this situation, parents should change their mindset and recognise that children need their time.
Shared activities are a great alternative to screens. Time with the family is more valuable than digital distractions. Parents can engage in activities such as playing, crafting, role-playing, or board games, which are fun and strengthen social skills. Children should also help around the house. They learn responsibility when they participate. Alternatively, one can visit relatives or go to the playground. There are many activities available, but the willingness to sacrifice lies with the parents. They must dedicate their attention and time to their children.
It is also very important that children learn by imitation. When parents are constantly on their phones, children want to do the same. Islam encourages parents to be role models (Surah as-Saff, Ch.61: V.3-4). During meals or conversations, phones should be put away. This shows children that real relationships are more important than screens.
Excessive screen time harms children’s concentration, sleep, and behavior. Islam provides parents with clear values such as moderation and responsibility to protect their children. With clear rules, shared activities, and setting a good example, children can grow up healthy – in balance between technology and real life.