What should parents do if their child says they no longer feel safe talking online at all? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child expresses that they no longer feel safe talking to people online, it is a clear signal of a deep sense of vulnerability, most likely triggered by a frightening or negative experience. It is crucial for parents not to dismiss this as an overreaction, but to respond with immediate empathy and support, helping the child to heal and regain their sense of security at their own pace. 

Respect and Validate Their Feelings 

It is important to begin by validating your child’s feelings. You could say: ‘I can understand why you feel this way after what happened. Your feelings are real, and I am here to help you feel safe again.’ This initial reassurance helps the child to feel supported and understood, rather than feeling pressured to get back online before they are ready. 

Take a Gentle Pause From Online Communication 

It can be very helpful to take a complete break from online chats for a period of time, allowing your child to recover emotionally before they have to think about re-engaging. During this pause, you can encourage them to strengthen their offline friendships and family connections so that they do not begin to feel isolated. This sends a powerful message that their well-being is more important than being constantly connected. 

Gradually Rebuild Their Confidence 

When your child feels ready, you can reintroduce them to online communication slowly, starting with safe and familiar contacts, such as close friends or a family group chat. It can be helpful to sit with them as they use these platforms at first, showing them how to use tools like blocking and reporting. This approach turns online safety into a practical, skill-building exercise rather than a source of ongoing fear. 

Reinforce Their Sense of Control 

Empower your child by reminding them that they always have the right to decide who they interact with online. Teach them that saying no, stepping away from a conversation, or limiting their online circles are all healthy and powerful choices. The goal is to help them to see that technology is a tool that they can control, not something that has to control them. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam encourages believers to be strong and resilient, not to live in a state of fear. By using these teachings, parents can help their children to see that while what happened to them was wrong, they can learn to re-engage with the world from a position of strength and wisdom, with their trust placed firmly in Allah. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Anfaal (8), Verses 60: 

‘ And (O Muslims) prepare (for war) against them with whatever capacity of force that you have, and with as many saddle mounted horses; so that you may shock therewith the enemies of Allah (Almighty) and your enemies…’ 

While this verse relates to a specific historical context, its underlying principle is one of strength and preparedness. It reminds us that our goal should be to build the skills and strength that guard us against harm, rather than withdrawing completely out of fear. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, 2664, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer, while there is good in both.’ 

This teaching is a powerful reminder that cultivating resilience and strength, especially after a difficult or frightening situation, are qualities that are deeply beloved by Allah. 

Parents can use these principles to help their children understand that while their fear is a natural response, Allah encourages believers to build strength and courage. By gradually reintroducing safe online communication, with proper guidance and a foundation of faith, children can learn that true safety comes not from total avoidance, but from preparation, resilience, and a deep trust in Allah Almighty.