Parenting Perspective 

Use a Simple Analogy 

Many children view the online world as a separate space from ‘real life,’ which can lead to carelessness in how they speak and act. To bridge this gap, start with a simple, powerful analogy: ‘Anything you say online is like writing on a permanent wall. It stays there and can affect others, just like words spoken in real life.’ It is crucial to explain that the people on the other side of the screen have real feelings, just like their friends and family. 

Make It Practical and Relatable 

Use examples that your child can relate to: ‘If someone called you a name in a game, it would hurt just as much as if they said it to your face.’ Explain that our online behaviour builds our reputation, just as our actions do at school. Set a clear expectation that your family’s rules of kindness and respect apply everywhere, both online and offline. Reinforce this by praising their good online conduct, such as encouraging a teammate. 

Integrity is Consistent Everywhere 

By linking online actions to real-life consequences and feelings, you teach your child that integrity is a consistent value that must be upheld across all spaces, both physical and digital. 

Spiritual Insight 

Every Action Will Be Weighed 

Islam teaches that every single action, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, is witnessed by Allah and will be weighed on the Day of Judgement. This applies to our conduct online just as it does offline. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Zalzalah (99), Verses 7-8: 

‘Thus, everyone’s actions equivalent to the measurement of an atom that is good shall be observed by them (on the Day of judgement). And everyone’s actions equivalent to the measurement of an atom that is wicked shall be observed by them (on the Day of judgement).‘ 

Words Carry Immense Weight 

The prophetic tradition warns us that a single, casually uttered word can have immense consequences for our fate in the Hereafter. This is a powerful reminder for children to be mindful of what they say and type online. 

It is recorded in Riyadh Al Saliheen, 1516, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘A servant utters a word pleasing to Allah, not realising its significance, for which Allah records His pleasure for him until the Day he will meet Him. And a servant utters a word displeasing to Allah, not realising its significance, for which Allah records His displeasure for him until the Day he will meet Him.’ 

Online Behaviour is Part of Our Deen 

When you help your child understand that their online behaviour is a part of their deen, they learn to treat digital spaces with the same mindfulness as their real-life interactions. This mindset nurtures honesty and respect, helping them to live with integrity wherever they are.