What is the best way to rebuild a child’s confidence to use apps after being bullied there? 

Parenting Perspective 

Being bullied on a social media app can leave a child feeling fearful of returning to that digital space, even long after the bullying has stopped. It is important for parents to approach this situation with patience, focusing first on emotional healing before encouraging their child to re-engage. The goal is to rebuild their confidence so they can eventually use technology with a renewed sense of safety and strength. 

Acknowledge the Emotional Impact 

Your first step should be to acknowledge your child’s fear and reassure them that their feelings are completely valid. It is crucial not to push them back online too quickly. Instead, you should give them the time and space they need for emotional healing before you even begin to talk about reintroduction. 

Restore Their Sense of Safety Through Support 

Rebuilding your child’s confidence begins by showing them that they are not alone. You can offer to sit with them as they use the app, helping them to adjust their privacy settings, block any harmful users, and explore the reporting tools together. This shared action helps to restore their sense of safety and shows them that there are practical protections available to them. 

Encourage a Gradual Reintroduction 

Encourage your child to return to online spaces slowly, starting with environments that are positive and supportive, such as a private family group chat or messages with a few close friends. Remind them that one negative experience does not have to define all of their future interactions. It is important to celebrate their small milestones, like engaging with a kind message, to rebuild their sense of control. 

Build Inner Strength Beyond Apps 

A healthy balance is essential for long-term resilience. Reinforce your child’s sense of worth through positive offline experiences, such as hobbies, real-world friendships, and family time. When children feel confident in their identity and relationships away from their screens, they are far less likely to be shaken by online negativity. This inner security makes them stronger and more resilient digital users. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that a believer’s dignity is sacred and must be protected. Parents can remind their children that bullying is a serious wrongdoing in the eyes of Allah, and that their own worth is not in any way diminished by the cruel behaviour of others. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Aalai Imran (3), Verses 139: 

‘ And do not weaken (seeing the strength of the opposition), and do not grieve (for those who have passed away as martyrs); and ultimately you will prevail, if you are (true) believers.‘ 

This verse is a direct command to believers, encouraging them to rise up with strength even after experiencing hurt or grief. It is a reminder that our true honour and superiority come from our faith, not from the words or actions of other people. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 1927, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The Muslim is the brother of a Muslim: he does not oppress him, nor abandon him, nor belittle him.’ 

This teaching clarifies that bullying and belittlement are in direct opposition to the very spirit of our faith. Reminding a child of this can help them to understand that the cruelty they faced was a reflection of the bully’s weakness, not their own. 

By grounding your child in these powerful values, you can show them that their true worth is secure with Allah and within the love of their family. With patient support, your child can learn to return to using online apps not with fear, but with a renewed sense of strength and purpose.