What should parents do if their child suddenly avoids certain apps or games without explanation? 

Parenting Perspective 

When a child abruptly stops using an app or game that they previously enjoyed, it can be easy to dismiss it as a passing change of interest. However, this kind of unexplained avoidance can also be a signal that they have had a negative experience online, such as an incident of bullying, exposure to frightening content, or an inappropriate interaction. It is important for parents to treat this shift with sensitivity, recognising that their child’s silence may be rooted in fear, shame, or confusion. 

Notice the Suddenness of the Change 

If your child seems to abandon an app overnight without giving a clear reason, it is worth exploring gently. While interests do change over time, a sudden and complete avoidance often signals that a specific incident occurred that made them feel unsafe or uncomfortable. 

Look for Accompanying Emotional Cues 

Observe your child’s emotional state when the app or game is mentioned in conversation. Anxious body language, unusual irritability, or even forced, nervous laughter can indicate hidden distress that is connected to the app, rather than simple boredom. 

Ask Gently Without Applying Pressure 

Instead of demanding an immediate explanation, which can cause a child to become defensive, it is better to open the door for a conversation with empathy. You could say: ‘I have noticed you are not using that game anymore. Did something happen on there that made you uncomfortable?’ This gives your child permission to share their feelings without the fear of being punished. 

Keep the Channels of Communication Open 

Even if your child does not explain themselves right away, you can still reassure them. Let them know: ‘You can always come and tell me if something online ever bothers you. I will always listen and try to help.’ This creates a sense of safety for future honesty. 

By approaching the situation calmly and with care, you can better understand whether their avoidance is harmless or a warning sign, while helping your child to feel supported and secure. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches that believers should actively avoid situations that cause them harm. It also teaches that a person’s silence in the face of distress should not be a cause for their isolation. Parents are entrusted with the duty of noticing when their children withdraw and of gently guiding them back to a place of safety and openness. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Maaidah (5), Verses 2: 

‘…And participate with each other to promote righteousness and piety, and do not collaborate in the committal of any sin or moral transgression…’ 

This verse reminds us that withdrawing from harmful environments or interactions is an act of piety. However, children should not have to face these struggles alone; they are in need of parental guidance and support. 

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. Strive for that which will benefit you, seek the help of Allah, and do not feel helpless.’ 

This teaching shows that when we face difficulties, turning to others for help and seeking the support of Allah is a sign of strength, not weakness. 

By framing a child’s avoidance as a possible sign of distress, parents can guide them to open up about their experiences. This helps them to learn that Islam values both the act of protecting oneself from harm and the wisdom of leaning on trusted support.