Does the presence of images and drawings of animate beings in the house prevent the acceptance of prayers (du’a) and seeking forgiveness (istighfar), and what should a questioner do who has no authority over her household members who bring them in, knowing that angels do not enter a house in which there are images?

The presence of forbidden pictures in a house prevents the angels from entering, based on the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "The angels do not enter a house in which there is a dog or a picture." As for linking the prevention of these pictures to the acceptance of supplications, there is no basis for that, for Allah may answer the supplication of a disobedient person.

Parents should be advised gently and kindly regarding the presence of such pictures, for "religion is advice," while being careful not to offend or be harsh in speech.