How can parents encourage teens to start or join positive trends that align with Islamic values? 

Parenting Perspective 

Instead of only focusing on the dangers of negative trends, parents can take a powerful, proactive approach by empowering their teens to become creators of positive ones. 

Empower Them to Be Leaders, Not Followers 

Start by expressing confidence in their potential. You can say, ‘You have such a great sense of humour and so many creative ideas. Imagine if you used that talent to start a trend that actually inspires people’. When a teenager feels that you believe in their capacity to lead and influence, they are more motivated to step up. 

Brainstorm ‘Cool’ Halal Trends Together 

Work with your teen to brainstorm ideas that are both fun and aligned with Islamic values. This could be anything from a kindness challenge or a modest fashion reel, to a Quran journaling series or a video showcasing a local charity’s work. This collaborative process shows them that being faith-inspired does not mean being boring; it means being creative and purposeful. 

Provide Practical Support and Encouragement 

Support their positive initiatives with practical help. This might mean offering them a ring light for better videos, helping them with transport for a project, or simply being their biggest cheerleader. When you share their wholesome content with pride (where appropriate), it validates their efforts and encourages them to continue. 

When a teen experiences the fulfilment of creating good in the world, they naturally lose interest in just being a passive follower of what is popular. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam is not a passive faith; it calls on believers to be active agents of good in the world. This is a noble mission that can be extended to the digital realm. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Aalai Imran (3), Verse 104: 

‘(In order that) there may develop from you a nation that invites (people) towards betterment; by promoting that which is positive (in its outcome) and forbidding that which is negative (in its outcome)…’ 

This verse is a direct invitation. It reminds a teenager that being a Muslim comes with the high honour and responsibility of being someone who actively calls to goodness. Starting a positive online trend is a modern and powerful way to be a part of this noble group. 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that the reward for guiding others is immense. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, 1893, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Whoever guides someone to goodness will have a reward like the one who does it.‘ 

This is a beautiful motivation for a young content creator. It teaches them that when they start a positive trend and others follow their good example, they receive a copy of the reward for every single person who benefits. This transforms their social media use from a simple pastime into a potential source of continuous charity (sadaqah jariyah).