How can families use Islamic values to explain why not every trend is worth copying? 

Parenting Perspective 

Children and teenagers are often drawn to online trends for the simple reason that ‘everyone is doing it.’ Whether it is a viral challenge, a particular way of dressing, or a new style of speaking, the social pressure to participate can feel immense. Families can use the timeless wisdom of Islamic values to help their children filter these trends, teaching them that not everything popular is good, and not everything different is bad. The goal is to empower them to pause, reflect, and measure their choices against the standards of faith and dignity. 

Explain That Popularity Does Not Equal Goodness 

Gently remind your children that online trends are driven by popularity and algorithms, not by wisdom or a moral compass. Just because something is common online does not mean it is safe, respectful, or beneficial for their character. Encourage them to ask themselves a crucial question: ‘Does this trend make me a better person, or does it pull me away from my values?’ 

Teach Them to Use Islamic ‘Filters’ 

Frame core Islamic values as a guiding lens through which they can view any new trend. These values can include modesty (haya), kindness (ihsan), honesty (sidq), and dignity (izzah). You can then ask your child to compare a popular trend against these principles. If it contradicts them, then it is not worth copying, no matter how many other people are doing it. 

Share Stories of Real Strength 

Highlight positive examples of people, whether from your own family, the community, or well-known Muslim role models, who resisted negative social pressure and earned even greater respect for standing firm on their principles. This helps children to see that true strength lies in discernment, not blind imitation. 

Encourage Positive Alternatives 

Guide your child to participate in or even to create their own online trends that spread kindness, creativity, or beneficial knowledge. This shows them that being different from the mainstream can be both fun and impactful, and it channels their social energy in a positive direction. 

By weaving Islamic values into your daily conversations about online life, you can teach your children that not every door needs to be opened, and not every crowd needs to be followed. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam directly addresses the powerful pull of following the majority, repeatedly reminding believers that truth and goodness are to be measured by the standards of Allah Almighty, not by mere numbers or popularity. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Maaidah (5), Verses 100: 

‘ Say (O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ): “The evil and the pure cannot be equated (in any way whatsoever), even though you may be bewildered by many of the evil actions; so, O you people of intellect (and wisdom) seek piety from Allah (Almighty), so that you may be successful”.‘ 

This verse teaches us a vital lesson in discernment. It clarifies that even if we are impressed by how widespread or popular something harmful has become, it can never be equal to the goodness of what Allah has permitted. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 41, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand the people are safe.’ 

This teaching provides a simple yet profound filter for our actions. It tells us that any trend worth copying must be one that encourages safety, kindness, and dignity, not one that leads to harm, foolishness, or indecency. 

By grounding their choices in these values, families can help their children to see that Islam does not restrict their joy, but rather protects them from future regret. Over time, children can learn that the only trend truly worth following is the path that earns the love and pleasure of Allah Almighty.