Avoiding Distractions and Staying Focused on Worship

Ramadan is a time for increased worship, self-discipline, and spiritual growth. However, transitioning from regular screen time and social media usage to a more focused and
A worship-centered routine can be difficult. Here are some ways that family members can avoid distractions and remain focused on worship during Ramadan: 

Younger Children

Helping younger children stay focused on worship during Ramadan, creating a calm atmosphere is important to maintain harmony at home and lower stress levels. Keep only the essentials by removing distractions such as electronics, toys, and sports equipment. Moreover, use neutral coloured curtains to prevent bright sunlight.

Second, establishing routines helps younger children maintain a tranquil environment. Schedule time for quiet tasks like reading short Islamic stories, drawing pictures about Ramadan, or writing short Ramadan poems or stories. These activities will help younger children focus on their worship while lowering distractions like electronics. 

Third, putting soft, calming sounds helps younger children enjoy a harmonious home. Put soft Quran recitations which have a relaxing effect and lower distractions. Also, teaching easy duas (supplications) and short suras (chapters) encourages active engagement in worship during Ramadan.

The hadith was narrated by Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him): 

Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings be Upon Him) said:

"Whoever listens to a verse from the Book of Allah, he will be rewarded with the reward of listening to it, and whoever recites a verse from the Book of Allah, he will be rewarded with the reward of reciting it."

(Sunan Ibn Majah)

This hadith highlights the reward for both listening to and reciting the Quran. It shows that listening to the Quran is a form of worship that brings great reward.

Teenagers

Teenagers' phones are one of the biggest distractions. Parents can set some boundaries by managing phone access at home. Helps teenagers focus on worship. Explain to teenagers the benefits of reducing screen time like increasing spiritual growth by praying punctually and reading Quran/translations.

Here are the following strategies that teenagers can manage their time on their phones: 

• When teens arrive home from school, parents can take their phones and put on a box or on a table. Meanwhile, they can focus on praying, reading Quran, and completing homework. Adolescents can only use a computer for academics (homework or projects).
• Parents can set time limits (1-2 hours per day). Helps adolescents manage their phone usage responsibly while still allowing them to enjoy it in moderation.
• Restrict times for phone usage. For example, parents can restrict teens to use their phones during iftar and before bedtime. These are important times for them to eat well after fasting for several hours and getting proper rest to wake up for suhoor and gain enough energy for school days. 

Sometimes, teenagers have a hard time focusing during Ramadan because of balancing responsibilities. It’s important to have fewer distractions that they can control as much as possible. The lesser distractions mean they can get more focused in life. 

One way to become more focused is goal-setting. Parents and teenagers can discuss their personal goals to achieve during fasting. For instance, complete reading a portion of the Quran or praying Taraweeh (night prayers) more frequently at a local masjid. This practice develops a sense of accomplishment, increases spiritual growth, and encourages consistent worship throughout the month.

Secondly, surrounding themselves with positive company, like joining youth halaqas (gatherings) or attending masjid programs, improves their faith and provides motivation. These gatherings offer a supportive environment where they can talk about Islamic teachings, seek guidance, and develop friendships that encourage righteousness. 

This hadith was reported by Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him): 

Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings be Upon Him) said: 

"A man follows the religion of his close friend, so each of you should look at whom he takes as a close friend."

(Tirmidhi)

This hadith emphasized that a person's character and faith are affected by their friends. Choosing righteous and positive companions helps strengthen one's faith and encourages good behavior.

Parents 

Parents can regulate their own actions and create a spiritual environment at home. Parents set a strong example for their children by prioritizing worship and minimizing distractions during Ramadan. 

Parents can do the following to regulate technology usage: 

• Delete the apps on their phones that keep them distracted. It reduces unnecessary screen time and allows them to engage in prayer, Quran recitation, and family activities.
• Avoid TV shows, movies, and gaming. Help parents use their time wisely by reflecting on their faith and strengthening their connection with Allah.
• Avoid using social media websites. Parents can communicate face-to-face with their friends in different places instead of online. This practice helps them strengthen their bond with Allah without online distractions.

Parents avoiding unnecessary technology usage will help them have a more productive Ramadan. 

Here are the following alternatives that parents can do during Ramadan: 

Gain more Islamic Knowledge: Spend time reading or listening to lectures about any Islamic topic. It will deepen their understanding and strengthen their faith.

Quran Recitation: Set goals for Quran recitation and translation. Parents can memorize a few verses and read the translation to comprehend the message better.

Helping Others: Parents can volunteer at the masjid, assist the elderly, or donate to fundraisers. It will teach them compassion and strengthens their connection to the Muslim community.

This hadith was reported by Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him): 

Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings be Upon Him) said: 

"Whoever relieves a believer's distress, Allah will relieve his stress on the Day of Judgment."

(Sahih Muslim)

This hadith emphasized the great reward of helping others, especially in their times of need, and highlights that Allah will reward those who assist others on the Day of Judgment by alleviating their own difficulties.

By staying focused on worship and avoiding distractions, families can strengthen their connection to Allah. This approach helps build long-lasting habits that go beyond Ramadan and support a stronger relationship with Allah.

• Stress-Busting Strategies for Ramadan with Children
• Making Ramadan fasting easy for children – Islamic Research and Information Center (IRIC)
• Preparing Your Child for Ramadan: Tips and Activities - Noor Academy : Online Quran, Arabic, and Islamic Studies Classes
• Teens TOO Addicted To Phones - Ramadan 2025
• Ramadan During The Era Of Social Media – FEMYSO
• Ramadan Tips For Parents | Muslim Perspectives