What if my child copies fighting moves from cartoons or games? 

Parenting Perspective 

When you see your child copying fighting moves from cartoons or video games, it is natural to feel concerned. You might worry about them hurting others or becoming desensitised to violence. However, children often imitate these actions during play as a way of exploring concepts like power, imagination, and social roles. The key is to channel this energy into safe activities while teaching clear boundaries. 

Understanding Imitative Fighting Play 

Cartoons and games often feature exaggerated action and conflict. Young children, who are still learning to distinguish between fantasy and reality, may perceive these fighting moves as exciting and harmless. Their intention is not usually to be aggressive; they are simply experimenting through imitation. 

Establishing Clear and Calm Boundaries 

When you observe this type of play, it is important to intervene. 

• Calmly explain the real-world consequences: ‘Those moves look fun in a cartoon, but they can hurt people in real life. We cannot use them on our friends or family.’ 

• Emphasise the difference between pretend and reality: ‘Cartoons are not real, and unlike cartoon characters, our bodies can get hurt easily.’ 

• Firmly redirect them towards a safer activity. 

Offering Positive Alternatives 

Guide your child towards safer, more constructive forms of active play that still satisfy their need for movement and excitement. 

• Enrol them in structured physical activities like martial arts, swimming, or football, where they can learn discipline and respect in a controlled environment. 

• Create enjoyable outlets at home, such as building obstacle courses, having dance parties, or organising family races. 

• Encourage role-play scenarios where they can be heroes through kindness, courage, or problem-solving, rather than through fighting. 

Using Media as a Teaching Opportunity 

Instead of imposing an outright ban on all cartoons or games, consider watching with your child and using it as a chance to talk. 

• Ask questions like, ‘Did you see how that character solved the problem? Was fighting the best way to handle it?’ 

• Praise programmes or games that emphasise cooperation, teamwork, and kindness. 

This practice helps your child develop critical thinking skills regarding the media they consume. 

Modelling Peaceful Conflict Resolution 

Children need to see how disagreements are handled peacefully in real life. Your consistent example reinforces the idea that true strength lies in self-control, not in physical dominance. 

• Use calm words instead of raised voices during disagreements. 

• Work together to negotiate solutions when conflicts arise within the family. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam guides us to embody peace, gentleness, and to use our strength for the benefit of others, not for harm. 

Guidance from the Quran 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Furqaan (25), Verses 63: 

‘ And the true servants of the One Who is Most Beneficent are those who wander around the Earth with humility; and when they are addressed by the ignorant people, they say: “Peace be unto you”.‘ 

This verse teaches that the mark of a true believer is to respond to provocation with peace and gentleness, not aggression. By encouraging your child to choose peaceful resolution over fighting, you are planting these core Islamic values in their character. 

Guidance from the Hadith 

It is recorded in Sunan Nisai, Hadith 5379, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The most beloved of people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to the people.’ 

This hadith highlights that our worth in the sight of Allah is linked to how beneficial we are to others. Helping your child channel their energy from fighting play into actions that are caring and helpful ensures they learn to bring benefit, not harm. By guiding your child with wisdom and compassion, you are not only protecting them from potential harm but are also shaping them to become individuals who use their strength for goodness, mercy, and service qualities deeply loved by Allah Almighty.