In the fast-paced world of social media, messaging apps, and online communities, children are growing up in a space where interaction often happens through screens. While technology brings many conveniences, it also presents new challenges—especially when it comes to preserving Islamic character and manners (adab). Teaching children how to behave online is just as important as teaching them how to behave in person.

Here’s how parents and educators can nurture Islamic manners in the digital age:

1. Begin with the Basics of Adab

Islamic manners are rooted in kindness, respect, honesty, and humility. Start by teaching children these values in everyday life, so they naturally carry them into their online behavior.

 Teach:

• Speaking respectfully to others (even in comments or messages)

• Avoiding mockery, backbiting, or spreading rumors

• Being truthful, even when it's easier to hide behind a screen

“And speak to people good words…” — Qur’an 2:83

2. Apply Islamic Values to Digital Behavior

Explain that Islam’s teachings apply both offline and online. What we type, post, share, and watch are all recorded by Allah just like our spoken words and actions.

 Encourage kids to ask themselves:

• “Would I post this if the Prophet ﷺ were watching?”

• “Is this comment kind, necessary, and respectful?”

• “Am I using my time online for good?”

3. Teach Responsible Social Media Use

Help children and teens understand that social media is a public platform—not a private space. Once something is posted, it can live on forever.

 Teach them to:

• Avoid oversharing personal information

• Be mindful of pictures they post or like

• Use their platforms to spread good, not gossip or negativity

“Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him speak good or remain silent.” — Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (Bukhari & Muslim)

4. Model Digital Manners Yourself

Children mirror what they see. If they notice adults engaging respectfully online, avoiding toxic arguments, and balancing screen time with real-life connection, they’re more likely to do the same.

 Practice:

• Putting devices away during meals and salah

• Speaking kindly online, even in disagreement

• Stepping away from screens to reconnect with faith

5. Avoiding Digital Harm (Backbiting, Spying, Mockery)

The digital world makes it easy to fall into sins without realizing it. Gossiping in group chats, making fun of others on social media, or spying on someone’s profile are all discouraged in Islam.

“Do not spy, nor backbite one another. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his brother when dead? You would detest it.” — Qur’an 49:12

Teach children to scroll with caution and speak with sincerity—even behind a screen.

6. Make Du’a for Guidance

Remind children that no one is perfect, and it’s okay to make mistakes—as long as they are willing to learn and improve. Encourage them to make du’a for wisdom, sincerity, and protection from digital harm.

Example:
"O Allah, guide me to use my words and actions—online and offline—in ways that please You."

 Final Thoughts

The digital age has created a new arena for testing our character—but Islamic manners remain timeless. By grounding children in adab, teaching them the spiritual significance of their actions, and being positive role models, we can help them grow into Muslims who shine with good character in every space—virtual or real.