Parenting Perspective 

Children often perceive online spaces as less formal than face-to-face interactions, which can lead them to use slang, sarcasm, or harsh language they would not use in person. It is crucial to teach them respectful online communication, as their digital words carry the same weight as spoken ones and can be easily misinterpreted, saved, and shared. 

Set Clear Guidelines and Explain Consequences 

Establish clear expectations with your child by explaining, ‘The same rules of respect that we follow in our home also apply when we are online.’ Discuss how hurtful messages can cause deep emotional pain and may remain visible for a long time. Help them understand that their online communication is a direct reflection of their character, not something separate from it. 

Practise Respectful Messaging 

Show your child practical examples of kind and respectful alternatives to harsh language. For instance, instead of writing ‘That’s a stupid idea,’ they could express their disagreement by saying, ‘I see it differently.’ Encourage them to use proper greetings like ‘Assalamu Alaikum’ and polite closing remarks, so their online presence mirrors the courtesy they would show in person. 

Model and Monitor Positively 

Ensure that your own messages in family chats or group discussions are a model of warmth, kindness, and good manners. It is also helpful to occasionally review your child’s chats with them, approaching it as a coaching opportunity rather than surveillance. You could say, ‘This was a very polite way to phrase that. Perhaps next time, this part could be worded more kindly.’ 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that all words, whether spoken or written, are a profound trust (amanah) for which we will be held accountable. 

Every Word is Recorded 

The Quran reminds us that we are never unobserved. An angel is appointed to record every word we utter, which instils a powerful sense of accountability for our speech, both online and offline. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Qaaf (50), Verses 18: 

‘(Man) is unable to utter a single word, without him being closely observed (and all actions being recorded)…’ 

The Character of a Believer’s Speech 

The prophetic tradition clearly defines the kind of speech that is incompatible with the character of a true believer, emphasising that foul and obscene language has no place in a Muslim’s conduct. 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, Hadith 625, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘A believer is not one who taunts, curses, or speaks in an obscene or foul manner.’ 

By guiding your child to use respectful language in their digital interactions, you are instilling the vital Islamic value of guarding the tongue and, by extension, the keyboard. They will learn that their online presence is an extension of their character and a part of their accountability before Allah Almighty.