Parenting Perspective 

Check In and Reassure 

If your child sees something inappropriate online, it is important to address the situation immediately and calmly. You can start by checking in with your child to see what they have seen and how they feel about it. Ask them to describe the situation in their own words. For example, you could say, ‘Can you tell me what you saw and how it made you feel?’ This allows your child to express any confusion, fear, or discomfort they may be feeling, which is an important first step in processing the experience. 

After you have understood the situation, reassure your child that they did nothing wrong by encountering the inappropriate content. Let them know that it is okay to feel upset or confused by what they have seen. You can explain that the internet has both good and bad content, and it is important to avoid the bad while enjoying the good. For instance, you might say, ‘The internet has a lot of information, but some things are not appropriate for you to see. It is important to be careful with what we watch.’ 

Encourage Open Dialogue 

Discuss the importance of coming to you if they encounter something inappropriate in the future. Let your child know that they should feel safe talking to you about anything they do not understand or find disturbing. It is crucial to praise them for coming forward and being honest about what they saw, as this helps to build trust and encourages open communication. If necessary, you can take steps to block or limit their access to certain sites and content and set clear rules around what is and is not appropriate for them to watch. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, guarding one’s eyes and mind from harmful influences is highly valued.³ Allah Almighty reminds us in the noble Quran at Surah Al Noor (24), Verse 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 teaches the importance of being mindful of what we see and consume, guiding us to protect our hearts and minds from harmful content. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also taught the importance of guarding one’s gaze. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6112, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The eyes commit adultery, and their adultery is to look at that which is unlawful.’ 

This Hadith underscores the importance of being cautious about what we expose ourselves to, and it serves as a reminder to be vigilant in protecting ourselves and our children from harmful content. By helping your child to navigate the internet in a mindful and responsible way, you are guiding them in accordance with these Islamic values.