Parenting Perspective 

Set Clear Expectations Before They Play 

Competitive online games can often bring out frustration and rude language in children. The best way to guide them is to set clear expectations before they begin to play: ‘In our family, how we treat people is always more important than winning.’ Make it clear that bad language or mocking others is not acceptable. It can also help to role-play positive responses, like saying ‘good game’ to an opponent. 

Monitor Their Behaviour and Model Calmness 

It can be useful to spend some time playing alongside your child to observe how they react under pressure. If they become rude, pause the game for a calm discussion: ‘I noticed you shouted just then. What is a better way to handle that feeling?’ It is just as important to praise good sportsmanship, like when they congratulate another player. This consistency helps them to build self-control. 

Connect Respectful Conduct to Strong Friendships 

With practice, they will learn that respectful conduct online earns trust and lasting friendships, whereas rudeness only isolates them. This teaches them that good character is more rewarding than a temporary win. 

Spiritual Insight 

Do Not Ridicule Others 

Islam teaches that a Muslim is known by the safety and respect others feel from their words and actions. The Quran explicitly forbids believers from ridiculing one another, a principle that applies just as much to online gaming as it does to face-to-face interactions. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 11: 

‘Those of you who are believers, do not let a nation ridicule another nation, as perhaps it may be that they are better than them…’ 

A Muslim is a Source of Safety 

The prophetic tradition gives a beautiful and simple standard for a Muslim’s character: being someone from whose words and actions others are safe. This is a powerful reminder for a child playing in a competitive online environment. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, 41, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand people are safe.’ 

Gaming as a Test of Character 

When your child understands that their respectful behaviour online is a direct reflection of their Islamic identity, they begin to see gaming as more than just a contest. It becomes a test of character. By linking their play to their faith, you help them to nurture manners that are pleasing to Allah and that will enrich their friendships both online and off.