How can parents prepare an 8-year-old to deal with friends teasing them for not having certain apps? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child is teased for not having a popular app, the real sting comes from feeling left out. The best defence is to build their inner confidence and give them the right tools to handle the pressure with strength and grace. 

Prepare Them with Confident Responses 

Role-play some simple, confident phrases they can use so they are not caught off guard. Having a script ready can make all the difference. You can practise replies like: 

• ‘My family has different rules for apps, but it is cool that you enjoy it.‘ 

• ‘I do not have that one, but I have been busy learning how to [mention a real hobby].‘ 

This helps them set a boundary politely and redirect the conversation. 

Anchor Their Self-Worth in Character 

Frequently remind your child that their value comes from their character, not their possessions or apps. Use specific praise like, ‘You are a wonderful friend because you are so kind and funny, and that is so much more important than any app’. When a child has a strong sense of their inner worth, teasing has less power to hurt them. 

Provide Exciting Offline Alternatives 

Ensure your child has a rich and exciting offline life that they can feel proud of. Enrol them in a sport, work on a fun craft project together, or plan a special weekend outing. When they have their own fun adventures and achievements to talk about, they are less likely to feel that they are “missing out.” 

By equipping a child with confident words, a strong sense of self, and a vibrant offline life, you empower them to stand tall against peer pressure. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us that being teased for upholding good values is a test of our conviction and that a believer’s character is defined by their kindness, not by what is popular. 

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

‘…Do not let a nation ridicule another nation…’ 

This verse is a source of strength for a child who is being teased. It reminds them that the act of ridiculing others is wrong in the sight of Allah. This helps them to understand that the person doing the teasing is the one whose behaviour is incorrect, which can depersonalise the hurt. 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ described the noble character of a believer. 

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

‘A believer is not one who taunts, curses, uses foul language or mocks others.‘ 

This beautiful hadith gives your child a noble identity to aspire to. It teaches them that their choice to be kind and to avoid what is harmful is a direct reflection of the character of a true believer. It is a reminder to both be strong when faced with unkindness, and to never engage in such behaviour themselves.