In today’s world, technology is everywhere, and children are constantly using it - whether for school, fun, or socialising. While it can be helpful there are hidden dangers that come with it. These unseen forces can slowly influence the way children think, act, and feel, often without them or their parents realising it. As Muslim parents, it’s important to recognise these risks and use both Islamic guidance and practical steps to protect our children. 

One of the greatest challenges is the addictive nature of screens. The bright colors, sounds, and constant updates of social media and games are designed to keep children engaged for long periods. Over time, this can lead to digital addiction, where children find it difficult to disconnect from their devices. This overuse can affect their sleep, reduce time spent with family, and even cause academic struggles. Islam teaches us to maintain balance in everything we do, and this applies to technology as well. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) reminded us that moderation is key, saying, “The best of deeds, are those done in moderation”. Parents can guide their children by setting healthy limits on screen time and encouraging offline activities, such as sports, reading, or spending time with family. These alternatives, not only help reduce the overuse of technology but also provide children with opportunities to grow physically, mentally, and spiritually.

Beyond addiction, the internet can also expose children to more direct dangers, such as online predators and inappropriate content. While social media platforms and chat rooms may seem harmless, they can unfortunately be used by predators to take advantage of children’s innocence. Islam teaches us to be vigilant in protecting our children from harm, whether it’s physical, emotional, or digital. The Prophet (PBUH) emphasised the need to protect the weak, including our children, who rely on us for their safety. Allowing children to explore the internet without guidance can expose them to harmful individuals and inappropriate material, therefore making it crucial for parents to stay aware of their children’s online activities. Open communication is key, parents should regularly talk to their children about who they interact with online, what content they see, and how to spot harmful content.

To effectively protect children from these unseen dangers, parents must take active steps. One practical way is to implement parental controls on digital devices. Many devices, apps, and Internet Service Providers offer services that allow parents to restrict access to harmful content, set time limits, and monitor online activity. By doing this, parents can prevent exposure to inappropriate content and limit the chances of children engaging in risky online behavior. For parents who aren't very familiar with technology, getting help from professionals can offer useful tips and guidance on keeping their children safe online. But beyond just using technical controls, parents need to be involved in guiding their children's behavior online. This includes discussing the importance of privacy, teaching them not to share personal information, and helping them understand the potential dangers they may face.

Islam provides a strong foundation for addressing these challenges. Children should be taught the importance of modesty both in the physical world and online. Modesty in Islam extends beyond how we dress and behave in public, it also includes how we present ourselves online. Encouraging children to protect their privacy and to interact online in ways that reflect Islamic values is crucial. Similarly, the concept of God-consciousness can serve as a guiding principle for children, helping them make responsible choices even when parents are not watching. Reflecting on Islamic teachings will help strengthen children’s connection with Allah and guide their actions in the digital world.

In the end, the digital world brings both opportunities and risks. As Muslim parents, it is our responsibility to safeguard our children from the unseen dangers of technology. By setting limits, implementing parental controls, and nurturing strong Islamic values, we can ensure that our children grow up safe and remain rooted in their Deen. By maintaining a healthy balance between technology and other activities, having open and honest conversations, and staying actively involved in their online experiences, we can help our children navigate the digital world while staying connected to Allah and the values that matter most.