Parenting Perspective 

Set Expectations Before They Play 

The intensity of online matches can lead to frustration and a temptation to ‘rage quit.’ The first step is to prepare your child before they play by reminding them, ‘Sometimes you will win, and sometimes you will lose. Both are a normal part of the game.’ You can set a clear expectation that finishing a match respectfully is a non-negotiable rule in your home. 

Teach Coping Strategies for Frustration 

It is helpful to teach your child practical coping strategies, such as taking a deep breath or stepping away for a short break when they feel overwhelmed. Role-playing these responses during a calm moment can make them easier to remember during a heated game. It is also important to praise your child for finishing a game without quitting, as this shows them that graceful behaviour is an achievement in itself. 

Reframe the Meaning of Success 

Try to shift their focus from the final outcome to their personal progress. Asking questions like, ‘What did you learn from that match?’ or ‘You improved your score from last time!’ helps them to see that losing can still be a form of progress. By highlighting their improvement, you teach them that a loss is not a failure, but a step forward. 

Spiritual Insight 

Success Comes Through Perseverance 

Islam teaches that true and lasting success is not found in immediate victory, but in the steadfastness and patience a person shows through challenges. The Quran reminds believers to persevere, knowing that this is the path to pleasing Allah. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Aalai Imran (3), Verse 200: 

‘O you who are believers, be patient, and be resilient, and be constant, and attain piety from Allah (Almighty) so that you may be successful.‘ 

True Strength is in Self-Control 

The prophetic tradition offers a powerful redefinition of strength. It is not about one’s ability to overpower an opponent, but about the inner strength required to control one’s anger in moments of frustration or defeat. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, 2609, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The strong person is not the one who throws his opponent down, but the strong person is the one who controls himself when he is angry.’ 

A Training Ground for Character 

When you frame losing as a chance to practise patience for the sake of Allah, your child begins to see that calmness is a victory in itself. This perspective helps them to finish their games respectfully, transforming online play into a valuable training ground for resilience and good character.