Dear Habibi,

I need to talk to you about something that has been weighing on my heart. I feel like I am losing you—to a screen.

I remember when we used to sit together, talk about life, and share moments that felt warm and real. Now, I see you constantly on your phone—scrolling, texting, watching videos, lost in a world that never stops. I know that technology is part of your life, but I worry that it’s becoming your whole life.

What Happens When Screens Take Over?

My dear, this isn’t just a mother’s concern—it’s something even science warns us about. Studies show that excessive screen time can:

📌 Change the way your brain works – It affects focus, patience, and emotional regulation, making it harder to concentrate and stay present. (healthmatters.nyp.org)

📌 Take away your rest – The blue light from screens messes with your sleep, leaving you tired and drained instead of refreshed for Fajr and the day ahead. (mayoclinichealthsystem.org)

📌 Make you feel disconnected – Too much time online can make it harder to have deep, meaningful relationships in real life. Even your ibadah (worship) can feel rushed because distractions are always waiting.

📌 Consume your time without benefit – The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "Take advantage of five before five..."—one of them being our free time before we become busy (Hadith, Al-Hakim). When we are glued to our phones, how much time do we waste on things that bring no barakah (blessing)?

I Don’t Want to Lose Our Connection—Or Yours With Allah

My love, I am not saying we should get rid of technology. It has its benefits, and I know you use it to learn and connect. But I also know that it steals time from your Qur’an, from your salah, from our family, and from your own peace of mind.

Let’s try to find balance. Can we:

1. Make tech-free worship times? No phones before or after salah—just time to reflect, make dua, and be fully present with Allah.

2. Have meaningful conversations again? Let’s sit together, drink tea, and talk without distractions. No notifications, just mother and daughter.

3. Use technology for khayr (goodness)? Instead of endless scrolling, let’s listen to tafsir, engage in online Islamic classes, or follow pages that uplift our iman.

4. Set limits together? Not as a rule, but as a way to protect your time, your energy, and your connection with Allah.

Let’s Learn Together

I found a DigitalDeen course for parents, and I think it could help us. It’s not just about limiting screens—it’s about using technology with intention, balance, and purpose. Maybe we can learn together, finding ways to use tech in a way that strengthens, not weakens, our faith.

My dear daughter, I love you, and I only want what is best for you—in this life and the next. Let’s make sure that when we look back, we remember the moments we shared together, not the ones spent staring at a screen.

With all my love,
Your Mother

You can do something about it. Download the DigitalDeen for Parents to help your family today.