How do I teach my child the concept of accountability (hisab) in what they consume online? 

Parenting Perspective 

Teaching a child about accountability (hisab) for their online choices begins with making this profound spiritual concept relatable to their daily life. The goal is to nurture an internal moral compass, not just to enforce external rules. 

Make the Concept Relatable 

You can start by explaining that just as they are answerable to parents and teachers for their actions, we are all ultimately answerable to Allah for what we choose to watch, read, and share online. Use simple examples they can understand: how keeping a promise in a game, being fair with online friends, or choosing not to copy someone’s work reflects honesty and self-control. 

Encourage Reflective Questions 

Introduce the idea that a screen is like a window to the world, but not everything on the other side of that window is safe or pleasing to Allah. Encourage them to develop a habit of self-reflection by asking themselves a simple question: ‘Would I be happy watching this if the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was sitting right here with me?’ This one question can become a powerful internal filter. 

Co-Create a ‘Family Values’ Filter 

Rather than just giving them a list of forbidden content, involve them in creating a positive ‘family values’ filter. Discuss and agree on the types of content you will welcome into your home and the types you will avoid. This process feels empowering, not restrictive, and gives them ownership over the family’s standards. 

Model What You Teach 

The most crucial step is to model this mindful behaviour yourself. When your child sees you being conscious of your own online activity and making choices based on your values, they will understand that hisab is a principle that applies to everyone, at every age. 

Spiritual Insight 

Accountability (hisab) is a deeply rooted Islamic principle that nurtures sincerity, mindfulness, and a powerful sense of personal responsibility. 

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)…’ 

This verse reminds us that every action, no matter how small or private it may seem, is recorded and will be brought forth on the Day of Judgement. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 2417, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The feet of a servant will not move on the Day of Resurrection until he is asked about his life and how he spent it, about his knowledge and what he did with it, about his wealth and how he earned and spent it, and about his body and how he wore it out.’ 

This hadith teaches us that we are individually responsible for how we use every blessing Allah has given us, including our time and our attention. By teaching the concept of hisab in this gentle and relatable way, you plant the seeds of self-awareness in your child. Over time, they will learn to see their online choices not as rules to be followed to avoid trouble, but as opportunities to earn the pleasure of Allah.