Unmodern Aspects of Islam (30): Parenting Outsourced

 

Did you know that children today spend an average of 4–6 hours a day on screens, while meaningful family conversations often last less than 30 minutes? For many, tablets and TVs have become the real parents.

Outsourcing parenting to screens may keep children quiet, but it starves their hearts. They learn values from algorithms instead of parents, absorb endless distractions, and miss the warmth of tarbiyah—nurturing with love and faith.

The Prophet ﷺ embraced children, joked with them, carried them on his shoulders, and even shortened his prayer when he heard a child crying. His example showed that raising children isn’t about keeping them occupied—it’s about filling them with love, guidance, and mercy.

The early Muslims raised their young through presence. Fathers and mothers taught Qur’an, modeled good character, and included their children in worship and daily life. This tarbiyah built generations who carried both strength and faith.

What about us? Instead of handing over our children to screens, we can reclaim their hearts with time, stories, and sincere attention. Screens may entertain—but only parents can truly raise.

In a modern world, the Sunnah is our way back to what truly matters.