By Mustafa Makumba

Childhood in Malawi has always been full of life, playing football in the dust, climbing mango trees, running through the rain, and sharing stories under the moon. Today, childhood is changing. Many children now spend hours staring at screens on tablets, phones, or TVs absorbing images, videos, and games that replace the simplicity and play of the natural world. While technology brings undeniable benefits, it also presents new challenges for parents, teachers, and communities.

Raising children is not only about providing food, shelter, and education. It is about nurturing character, instilling values, and guiding young hearts toward what is good. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that every child is born with a natural disposition toward goodness, but it is the guidance of parents and society that shapes their character. Today, screens play an increasing role in that shaping.  Technology is undoubtedly a powerful tool.

Children can learn new skills, explore the world, and access educational content that would otherwise be unavailable. Yet, unchecked screen time can erode essential virtues. Patience, empathy, attention, and social interaction are cultivated through real-life experiences, not just pixels. Meals, conversations, chores, and outdoor play are opportunities for children to learn responsibility, gratitude, and cooperation. These experiences also build a sense of community and belonging, which is essential in Islamic teaching.

Restricting technology entirely may leave children feeling isolated or unprepared for the modern world. Allowing unrestricted access can cultivate distraction, dependency, and desensitization to values. The solution lies in guidance and moderation. The Qur’an encourages believers to teach, remind, and lead by example. Children observe more than they listen. When parents model respect, discipline, and generosity, children absorb these values naturally. When screens dominate the household, children learn that attention and presence are less important than virtual worlds.

Practical steps can make a difference. Establishing “screen-free” times during meals and family gatherings, encouraging outdoor play, promoting reading and storytelling, and involving children in household or community projects help ground them in reality. Parents can guide their children toward beneficial content and monitor harmful material.

Rewarding curiosity, creativity, and active engagement in life can teach children that the world beyond the screen is rich, meaningful, and full of lessons.Ultimately, raising children in the digital age is about preserving their hearts and minds while preparing them for the future. By teaching children to balance technology with real-world experiences, we honour the trust Allah places in parents to guide the next generation.

When children grow up mindful, compassionate, and grounded, they are not only better equipped for life but are also able to reflect the values that strengthen families and communities.In the end, screens will continue to be part of life, but the lessons we teach, the time we spend together, and the example we set will shape the souls of children far more than any device ever could.