Parenting Perspective 

Explain the ‘Why’ 

Teaching your child to check with you before downloading anything is an essential step in ensuring their online safety and teaching them about responsibility. You can start by explaining to your child why it is important to check with you before they download apps, games, or any other content from the internet. You might say, ‘Before you download anything, it is important to check with me. This way, we can make sure it is something that is safe, appropriate, and beneficial for you.’ 

Set Up a Simple System 

You can set up a system where your child knows they should always ask you first. It is a good idea to create a rule or a simple routine where they check in with you, either by showing you the app or the content they want to download, or by discussing it with you beforehand. For example, ‘Whenever you see an app or a game that looks interesting, just show it to me, and we can talk about whether it is a good choice.’ 

Praise Their Responsibility 

It is important to praise your child when they follow the rule and check with you before downloading. This reinforces that their willingness to follow these guidelines is a sign of their maturity and responsibility. ‘I am really proud of you for asking me before you downloaded that app. You are showing great responsibility!’ 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, protecting oneself from harm and making thoughtful, responsible decisions is a key part of our personal development. Allah Almighty says in the noble Quran at Surah Al Baqarah (2), Verse 195: 

‘And expend (your wealth) in the pathway of Allah (Almighty), and do not let your actions place you in a (state of) destruction (by being miserly)…..’ 

This verse reminds us that we should protect ourselves from harm and make decisions that keep us safe from unnecessary risks. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also emphasised the importance of responsibility and caution. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3587, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

‘The best of you are those who are the best to their families.’ 

This Hadith reinforces that protecting your family, which includes guiding them in safe and responsible decision-making, is an essential part of fulfilling your duties. By teaching your child to check with you before they download anything, you are helping them to stay safe and to make responsible choices, in line with the Islamic values of protection and wisdom.