Parenting Perspective 

For many parents, the moment their child’s music or YouTube habits enter the conversation, a sense of fear can take over. Worries about inappropriate lyrics, wasted time, or conflicting values can lead to sharp, reactive responses. Yet, children are most likely to hide their choices if they sense only judgement. What they need is not a wall of criticism, but a door of dialogue. 

Lead with Genuine Curiosity 

Start with an attitude of openness: ‘What is it that you like about this YouTube channel?’ or ‘Which part of that song really speaks to you?’ These questions show that you are interested in understanding their world, not just policing it. Listening first is a powerful act; it tells your child that their opinions matter, even if you do not agree with them.¹ This helps you learn what draws them in: perhaps it is creativity, humour, or a sense of belonging. This is about understanding their motivation. 

Separate the Person from the Choice 

It is crucial to affirm that liking a particular song or video does not define who your child is as a person. You might say, ‘I know you are exploring different things. Watching this does not make you a bad person; it just means you are curious.’ This distinction reduces their sense of shame and keeps the conversation focused on choices, not on identity. Once shame is removed, guidance is much easier to accept. 

Shape Reflection, Not Control 

Instead of issuing immediate warnings, invite them to reflect: ‘After watching that, do you feel inspired or a bit restless?’ or ‘What do you think the creator of that video wants people to believe?’ These gentle questions help children to develop the skill of assessing content critically for themselves. Over time, they begin making decisions not out of fear of your reaction, but out of an awareness of their own heart. 

Lead by Example 

If children see you engaging thoughtfully with your own media choices—by turning away from harmful content and sharing uplifting pieces—they learn that discernment is a life skill, not just a parental rule. To make this practical, invite your child once a week to show you a video they liked, and in return, you can share one you found meaningful. This models a balanced approach and makes your example stronger than any lecture. 

Spiritual Insight 

In Islam, conversations about entertainment must be rooted in wisdom and mercy. The goal is not to silence a child’s interests but to gently guide them towards choices that nurture their hearts rather than weaken them. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Luqman (31), Verse 6: 

‘And amongst mankind are those who sponsor idle tales, so as to mislead (people) who have no knowledge, from the path of Allah Almighty; and they have made (these kinds of actions) into a charade…’ 

This verse warns of entertainment that is designed to distract people from the path of truth. Instead of using such a verse to inspire fear, you can use it to gently explain: ‘Not all entertainment is harmful, but some things can pull us away from what strengthens our spirit. How can we learn to choose what brings us closer to goodness?’ This approach makes the verse a tool for reflection, not condemnation. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 39, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Religion is very easy and whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way.² So you should not be extremists, but try to be near to perfection and receive the good tidings that you will be rewarded…’ 

This hadith is a beautiful reminder that Islam is a path of balance. When children struggle with their media choices, parents must embody that same balance—neither being so harsh that the child gives up, nor so lenient that guidance is lost. Through calm, non-judgemental conversations, children can learn to view their choices through the lens of faith without feeling crushed by guilt. 

By blending curiosity, reflection, and spiritual grounding, you can transform potentially tense conversations into safe and productive discussions. Your child will learn that your home is a space where their honesty is welcomed and where guidance is always offered with love. Over time, this trust helps to build a heart that naturally seeks what is uplifting and turns away from what diminishes it.