What subtle body language cues might show a younger child is disturbed by something they saw online? 

Parenting Perspective 

Younger children often do not have the vocabulary to explain what has upset them, but their body language and behaviour can be very revealing. When they have been exposed to something disturbing online, whether it is a scary image or inappropriate content, they often express their unease through subtle, non-verbal cues. Parents who learn to recognise these small signs can intervene early with the reassurance and guidance their child needs. 

Sudden Restlessness or Fidgeting 

A child who is unable to sit still after using a device, perhaps by constantly shifting in their seat or fidgeting with their hands, may be trying to release the nervous energy caused by something they have just seen. This physical agitation can be a clear sign of internal distress. 

Averting Their Gaze or Avoiding Eye Contact 

Children who feel uneasy, guilty, or frightened about something they have witnessed may find it difficult to look their parents in the eye. A sudden tendency to avoid eye contact, particularly when you ask them about what they were doing online, can be a sign that they are feeling uncomfortable. 

Protective Physical Gestures 

Observe how your child handles their device. If they quickly cover the screen when you approach, hold a phone or tablet very close to their chest, or physically turn their body away from you, these are often signs that they are hiding something or feel the need to protect themselves. 

Subtle Changes in Facial Expression 

Beyond obvious signs of sadness or fear, look for smaller and more subtle shifts in their expression. This could include things like unconsciously biting their lip, a sudden stiffness in their posture, offering a forced or fake smile, or having an unusually blank expression on their face. These small changes often indicate inner discomfort. 

By recognising these subtle signals, parents can step in gently, asking with warmth: ‘You look a little unsettled. Did something you saw online bother you?’ This approach encourages honesty without adding to any shame the child might already be feeling. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam recognises that the eyes are the gateways to the heart and soul. Protecting one’s gaze from harmful sights is therefore a responsibility for both adults and children. As the designated shepherds of the family, parents are tasked with noticing when something is threatening their child’s inner peace and gently guiding them back towards safety. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Noor (24), Verses 30: 

‘ Say (O Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) to the believing men to lower their gaze (upon forbidden things); and protect their private parts (with chastity); these actions shall help them (attain) piety; indeed, Allah (Almighty is All Cognisant of all of their actions.‘ 

This verse reminds us that what our eyes consume has a direct effect on the purity of our hearts. Safeguarding the gaze is therefore an essential part of maintaining one’s spiritual well-being. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 1705, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Every one of you is a shepherd and every one of you will be asked about his flock.’ 

This teaching clarifies that parents have a duty to actively watch over their children’s welfare, which includes being attentive enough to recognise their silent signals of distress. 

By linking these observable body language cues to their spiritual duty of care, parents can learn to treat their child’s subtle discomfort not as something trivial, but as an important sign related to the child’s amanah (trust). Over time, this helps children to understand that their parents’ attentiveness is an expression of love and protection, in line with their Islamic values.