How do we prepare children for manipulative tactics predators might use, like flattery or gifts? 

Parenting Perspective 

Teaching children to recognise manipulation is a crucial layer of online safety. It helps them to look beyond surface-level kindness and understand the importance of healthy, respectful boundaries. 

Explain Manipulation in Simple Terms 

Explain that manipulation is when someone is overly nice to get you to do something that feels wrong or uncomfortable. Use a simple analogy, like a classmate offering you a toy but only if you will keep a bad secret for them. This makes the concept relatable and easy to grasp. 

Highlight Common Warning Signs 

Teach them to be aware of certain warning signs, such as sudden and excessive praise or unexpected gifts from an online contact. Explain that while these things can be nice, they are sometimes used to make a person lower their guard. True kindness does not ask for secrets or rule-breaking in return. 

Practise Saying ‘No’ with Confidence 

Gently role-play different scenarios, such as someone offering them an online gift in exchange for a personal photo. This gives them the chance to practise polite but firm responses, like, ‘Thank you, but I am not allowed to accept that.’ 

Reinforce the Habit of Checking with a Trusted Adult 

Create a firm family rule that they must always tell you if they receive an unexpected gift or an unusual amount of praise from someone online. Reassure them that checking with you is a sign of wisdom, and they will never be in trouble for doing so. 

These proactive conversations empower your child to trust their instincts and seek help when needed. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam guides us to be discerning and cautious in our interactions, protecting ourselves from those who may hide ill intentions behind a pleasant exterior. 

Guarding Against Hidden Harm 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Imran (3), Verse 120: 

‘If good touches you, it distresses them; but if harm strikes you, they rejoice at it. And if you are patient and fear Allah, their plot will not harm you at all…’ 

This reminds us that some people may not have our best interests at heart, and that our protection lies in being patient, cautious, and conscious of Allah. 

Awareness in Choosing Interactions 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 5779, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The example of a good companion and a bad companion is that of the bearer of musk and the one who pumps the bellows’ 

This teaches us to be mindful of the influences we allow into our lives, choosing relationships that uplift and protect us, rather than those that have the potential to cause harm. 

When children understand that Islam encourages them to be thoughtful in choosing companions, they learn that being cautious online is not about suspicion, but about protecting their dignity, safety, and faith.