My child sends me memes instead of telling me about their day. How do I guide them back to verbal sharing? 

Parenting Perspective 

When your child sends you a meme or a short video, they are often trying to connect. It can be their way of saying, ‘This made me think of you’, or even a way to express a feeling without having to find the words. Instead of dismissing it as shallow, view it as an invitation. The best response is to treat it as a bridge to a real conversation. Respond with curiosity, asking something like, ‘That is hilarious, what made you think of me with this one?’ 

Create a Bridge from Digital to Verbal 

You can create a casual routine of responding to these digital shares with an in-person follow-up. For example, you might say later, ‘That video you sent was so funny. It actually reminded me of…’ This helps you build a bridge from their digital share to a verbal conversation. It shows them that while their online humour is appreciated, it does not replace genuine connection. 

Model Mixed Communication 

Be sure to model the kind of sharing you want to receive. Share your own day in short, vivid stories. Mentioning an amusing detail from your commute or a small challenge you faced at work teaches them that words are powerful tools for expressing life’s moments, just like images are. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islamic teachings place a high value on the power of words and the importance of being present and beneficial to others. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 11: 

‘And do not insult each other; and do not call each other by (offensive) nicknames…’ 

This verse, while cautioning against hurtful speech, also highlights the immense power of words in shaping relationships. Spoken words carry a depth of nuance, empathy, and warmth that images and memes, while fun, often cannot convey on their own. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 1329, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The most beloved of people to Allah on the Day of Judgement will be the one who is most beneficial to people.’ 

One of the most beneficial things we can do for our children is to offer them the gift of our attention. Truly listening to them, and guiding them toward expressing themselves, is an act of love that helps them feel seen and valued. 

By valuing their digital attempts at connection while consistently inviting real conversation, you can gently guide them back towards verbal sharing without disrespecting their current communication style.