How can parents explain the difference between healthy sharing and oversharing without shaming? 

Parenting Perspective 

The line between sharing and oversharing can be blurry for children. The key is to teach them the difference in a way that empowers them to make wise choices, without making them feel ashamed or afraid to connect with others.

 

Define Both Concepts Clearly 

Explain that healthy sharing involves telling stories or feelings that are respectful and do not reveal sensitive details. Oversharing, on the other hand, is when too much personal information is given away, such as family routines or private struggles. 

Use Neutral, Non-Judgemental Language 

Instead of calling their behaviour ‘wrong’ in a way that might make them feel embarrassed, you can frame it as a matter of safety. Saying, ‘Some things are best kept private to protect ourselves,’ focuses the lesson on safety, not on blame. 

Give Relatable Examples 

Use clear, everyday examples. You can explain that sharing what they had for lunch with a friend is fine, but posting their exact location online is not. This helps them to understand the context and the audience. 

Model Healthy Sharing Yourself 

Be mindful of what you share about your own life and, especially, about your children. When they see you protecting your family’s privacy and asking for their consent before posting their photo, they learn that these boundaries are normal and respectful. 

These conversations help them build a strong internal filter for what is appropriate to share online. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us to be mindful and deliberate in what we share with others, protecting both our own dignity and the privacy of those around us. 

Guarding One’s Privacy 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujurat (49), Verse 12: 

‘And do not spy or backbite each other…’ 

This reminds us that our faith values discretion and discourages the unnecessary intrusion into, or sharing of, private matters. 

Speaking with Wisdom 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 47, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘He who believes in Allah and the Last Day must speak good or remain silent.’ 

This teaches us that our choice of what to share, whether online or offline, should always be guided by wisdom and a consideration of whether it is beneficial and good. 

By applying this wisdom to the digital world, we teach our children that thoughtful communication is a core part of faith and good character.