Parenting Perspective 

Explain the Difference Between Fantasy and Reality 

Teaching your child to question what they see in cartoons is an important skill that helps them to develop their critical thinking and to make better decisions in the future. You can start by explaining that cartoons, while they are entertaining, often present exaggerated or unrealistic portrayals of life, and that not everything they see should be taken as the truth. You might say, ‘Cartoons are fun, but they do not always show how things work in real life. Sometimes they show things that are funny, but not always respectful or realistic.’ 

Encourage Critical Thinking 

Encourage your child to think critically about the messages that cartoons convey. You can ask questions like, ‘Why do you think the characters in this cartoon are acting that way? Is that how we should treat others in real life?’ This helps them to analyse what they see and to understand the difference between fantasy and reality. You can teach them that not everything that is presented in the media is aligned with your family’s values or with what is respectful and kind. ‘Just because a character in a cartoon says something, it does not mean it is the right way to behave.’ 

Introduce Positive Media 

Introduce your child to media that aligns with the values you want to instil in them. You can select cartoons or stories that teach good character, teamwork, and respect for others, whether it is through examples of kindness or by challenging stereotypical portrayals. Praise your child for being thoughtful when they question what they see. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, seeking knowledge and thinking critically are highly valued. Allah Almighty says in the noble Quran at Surah Al Alaq (96), Verses 1-5: 

‘Read in the name of your Sustainer, Who has created you. Created mankind from a coagulated germ cell. Read, and your Sustainer is the Most Magnanimous. The One who taught through the pen (of Light, which wrote all of the destiny of creation). Taught mankind all that which he does not know.’ 

These verses emphasise the importance of knowledge and the pursuit of understanding, encouraging us to question and to reflect on everything around us. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also emphasised the importance of wisdom and critical thinking. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3587, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

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

This Hadith highlights that good character, critical thinking, and wisdom should be applied in all aspects of life, including the media we consume. By teaching your child to question what they see in cartoons, you are fostering their ability to think critically and to act in alignment with the Islamic principles of fairness, respect, and wisdom.