How can parents model avoiding gossip, backbiting, and unnecessary talk in WhatsApp or social media groups so children follow suit? 

Parenting Perspective 

Children learn their social etiquette, both online and off, by observing us. Modelling how to navigate group chats with dignity and purpose is a powerful way to teach them to avoid harmful speech. 

Be Selective in Group Participation 

Children notice which groups you participate in. By quietly leaving or muting chats where gossip or negativity dominates, you send a clear, silent message that not every conversation is worth your time and attention. 

Respond with Neutral or Positive Input 

If a conversation in a group chat turns towards gossip, you can model a better way. Either refrain from commenting entirely or try to gently steer the topic towards something more beneficial. Your child learns from this that they do not have to participate in negativity to belong. 

Limit Screen Time for Idle Chat 

Let your child see you using your device for purposeful reasons, such as learning something new or connecting with family, rather than for hours of idle chatter. This helps them to see technology as a tool for benefit, not just for passing time. 

Discuss Real Examples Without Naming People 

You can talk about general scenarios where you have seen gossip cause harm, without ever using real names. This helps your child to understand the real-world consequences of backbiting, making the lesson more memorable. 

Your example teaches them that a strong person is one who can rise above petty talk. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam gives a clear and serious warning against the dangers of backbiting (ghibah) and idle talk (laghw), teaching us to guard our tongues in all situations. 

The Gravity of Backbiting 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujurat (49), Verse 12: 

‘And do not spy or backbite each other. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it…’ 

This verse uses a powerful and vivid image to show the ugliness of backbiting, making it a clear boundary for believers, both offline and online. 

The Spirit of Brotherhood 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, Hadith 235, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Do not envy one another; do not inflate prices one to another; do not hate one another; do not turn away from one another; and do not undercut one another, but be, O servants of Allah, brothers.’ 

By showing this spirit of brotherhood in your own online behaviour, you help your children see that avoiding gossip is not just about avoiding sin, but is a positive act of maintaining unity and faith.