What is the best way to rebuild a child’s confidence in their Islamic identity after online ridicule? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child is mocked online for their Islamic identity, whether for wearing a hijab, mentioning their prayers, or simply holding Islamic values, the experience can be deeply hurtful and isolating. It is a direct attack on who they are. The role of a parent is to respond with immediate reassurance and to help rebuild their child’s confidence, turning a moment of pain into an opportunity to strengthen their pride in their faith. 

Validate the Pain of Ridicule 

It is essential to begin by acknowledging your child’s pain and validating their feelings. You could say: ‘I can understand how difficult and unfair that must feel.’ This shows them that their struggle is being seen and respected, and it prevents them from feeling as though they have to carry the hurt of the experience alone. 

Reinforce Pride in Their Identity 

You can then gently remind your child that their Islamic identity is a profound source of dignity, not shame. Highlight the inherent beauty of their faith by discussing its values of compassion, justice, and truth. This helps your child to understand that the ridicule they faced is a reflection of the other person’s ignorance, not a flaw in themselves. Sharing positive stories of Muslims who have stood strong in their faith can also connect them to a wider legacy of resilience. 

Provide Safe and Supportive Spaces 

Encourage your child to spend time with peers, mentors, or in youth groups where their Islamic identity is affirmed and their values are shared. These supportive communities are a powerful antidote to negative online encounters and can give a child the confidence that comes from knowing they are not alone. At home, celebrating Islamic practices together creates a safe environment where faith feels both empowering and joyful. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us that being a Muslim is a blessing and a source of immense honour, even if it feels difficult to express in front of others. By grounding your child in these truths, you can help to turn an experience of ridicule into one of spiritual resilience. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Aalai Imran (3), Verses 110: 

‘ (O Muslims) You are the better nation, developed (as an example) for mankind; by promoting that which is positive (in its outcome) and forbidding that which is negative (in its outcome), and (truly) believing in Allah (Almighty)…’ 

This verse is a powerful reminder that belonging to the Ummah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is an honour, even when others may not understand or respect it. 

It is recorded in Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 3986, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Islam began as something strange and will return to being strange as it began, so glad tidings to the strangers.’ 

This beautiful teaching reframes the feeling of being seen as ‘different’ for holding onto one’s faith. It is not a weakness, but a celebrated mark of true belief, and those who remain firm are promised glad tidings from Allah. 

A child who learns this will come to understand that their faith is not something to be hidden, but something to be carried with pride. It is a badge of honour that brings them closer to Allah and connects them to the legacy of believers throughout all of history.