What Islamic rules should I teach my child for using technology wisely? 

Parenting Perspective 

Technology as a Tool with Responsibility 

Children today grow up in a world where screens are everywhere, making it essential to guide them with clarity, not fear. Begin by explaining that technology is a powerful tool, not merely a toy. Say, ‘We use screens to learn, create, and connect, but like all things, they come with responsibility.’ This establishes a balanced mindset from the outset. 

Teaching Online Kindness and Privacy 

Teach your child that what they do online reflects who they are offline. Explain how to protect their privacy, such as avoiding personal details, turning off location sharing, and choosing strong passwords. Speak openly about kindness and respect in digital spaces. You might say, ‘We treat others online the way we would face-to-face, with care, respect, and dignity.’ 

Reinforcing Islamic Values 

Use everyday opportunities to reinforce Islamic values. If they are watching something, ask, ‘What do you like about this?’ If it promotes kindness, creativity, or learning, celebrate that. If not, guide them with compassion: ‘Does this content help us grow or pull us away from what matters?’ 

Leading by Example 

Most importantly, lead by example. Children watch what we do more than what we say. Keep your own devices aside during family meals or Salah. Say aloud, ‘Let’s all switch off for a while and just be present.’ When they see you honour balance, they are more likely to follow suit. 

Make these conversations ongoing and gentle. Technology is not inherently bad, it simply magnifies the intentions behind it. When framed with love and faith, screen use can become purposeful and mindful. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islamic guidance offers timeless wisdom that applies even in digital age. 

Allah Almighty states in Surah Al Hujuraat (49), Verse 12: 

“Those of you who have believed, abstain as much as you can from cynical thinking (about one another); as some of that cynical thinking is a sin; and do not spy (on each other) and do not let some of you backbite against others… “

This verse beautifully highlights the importance of privacy, respect, and restraint, values deeply needed in online spaces where anonymity often leads to carelessness. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 867a, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ cautioned against spying and prying into others’ affairs. These principles are deeply relevant when teaching your child about online etiquette. Whether they are Browse, chatting, or gaming, they must be reminded that every click and message carries moral weight. 

Encourage them to ask themselves: ‘Would I be proud of this action if someone I love saw it?’ Teach them the concept of Ihsan, doing the right thing, even when no one is watching, because Allah Almighty always is. Help them see technology not as separate from faith, but as a space where their Imaan is lived and reflected. 

Introduce simple Duas for protection before using screens and encourage them to say Bismillah before starting and Alhamdulillah after completing an activity. These habits root digital actions in spiritual consciousness, building a strong internal compass. 

In guiding your child to use technology wisely, you are not only protecting them, but you are also raising a generation that will, InshaAllah, use modern tools in a way that uplifts their Deen, dignity, and the world around them.