How can we prevent children from measuring their worth based on how many people view or comment on their posts? 

Parenting Perspective 

Detaching Value from Vanity Metrics 

Gently explain that online numbers, such as likes, views, and comments, are not a reliable measure of a person’s true worth or talent. These figures are often influenced by unpredictable factors like algorithms, posting times, and passing trends, which have no connection to the quality of their character or the effort they have put in. 

Focusing on Purpose Over Popularity 

Encourage your child to think about their intention before they post. The goal should be to share something they are genuinely proud of, to express their creativity, or to spread a positive message. By shifting the focus to the purpose behind the post, the number of reactions becomes secondary to the act of meaningful expression. 

Building Confidence Through Real-World Achievement 

Actively praise and acknowledge your child’s offline efforts and accomplishments. Whether it is a completed school project, a new skill learned in a hobby, or a simple act of kindness towards a family member, this real-world validation builds a resilient sense of self-worth that is not dependent on screen-based approval. 

Valuing Quality over Quantity in Connections 

Have a conversation about the difference between deep and shallow connections. Remind them that one heartfelt comment from a close friend who truly knows and supports them is far more valuable than hundreds of likes from strangers. This helps them appreciate meaningful relationships over superficial engagement. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam provides a clear and unwavering measure of human worth that liberates us from the need for public approval. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujurat (49), Verse 13: 

‘Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed, Allah is Knowing and Acquainted…‘ 

This verse establishes the ultimate standard of worth: righteousness (taqwa). It teaches children that their value in the sight of their Creator is based on their piety, sincerity, and consciousness of Him, not on their online popularity or the number of followers they have. 

This principle is reinforced in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, 4143, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Verily, Allah does not look at your appearance or your wealth, but He looks at your hearts and your deeds.‘ 

This hadith directs a child’s focus inwards. It teaches them that the true measure of their value lies in their intentions and actions. The sincerity in their heart when they create something is more important to Allah than the number of views it receives from people.