Parenting Perspective 

Teach Digital Citizenship 

Explaining right and wrong behaviour online is essential in today’s digital age, where children are exposed to a vast amount of information, both good and bad. You can begin by discussing the concept of digital citizenship with your child, just as you would teach them about being respectful and responsible in person. Explain that just as they need to behave with kindness and respect in the real world, the same principles apply online. You might say, ‘The internet is like a big community where we need to be kind, respectful, and responsible. If something is hurtful or mean, it is wrong, just like it would be in real life.’ 

Explain the Consequences 

Help your child to understand the consequences of their actions online. For example, if they are engaging in cyberbullying or making hurtful comments, explain how those actions can harm others, even though they are behind a screen. Similarly, explain that they should never share personal information, like their full name, address, or school, as it can put them at risk. For example, ‘Sharing too much about yourself online can make it easy for strangers to learn things they should not know, and it can put you in danger.’ 

Encourage Open Dialogue 

Encourage an open dialogue about what they encounter online. Ask your child to share what they see, hear, or interact with. Teach them to question content and to consider if it is appropriate, true, or respectful. Reinforce that they should always come to you with questions if they are unsure about something they see online. By fostering a healthy and open relationship, your child will be more likely to share their online experiences with you. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, the principles of honesty, respect, and kindness apply to all aspects of life, including the online world. Allah Almighty teaches us in the noble Quran at Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 11: 

‘Those of you who are believers, do not let a nation ridicule another nation, as perhaps it may be that they are better than them….’ 

This verse emphasises the importance of avoiding ridicule, mockery, and harm in our interactions with others, which applies directly to our online behaviour. 

The holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also encouraged good conduct and respect towards others. It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 3587, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated: 

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

This Hadith teaches that kindness and respect should be extended to all people, whether offline or online. By teaching your child the importance of kindness, respect, and responsibility in the digital world, you are helping them to align their actions with the moral and spiritual teachings of Islam.