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Parenting in the Digital Age

Published 14 hours ago2 minute read
Parenting in the Digital Age

Parenting in the digital age presents unique challenges, with social media and online interactions shaping teenagers' experiences. Parents like Christine Namunyak and Boniface Mwangi emphasize the importance of open communication and understanding. Christine shares that being a parent is not easy, especially dealing with teenagers, as one minute they are behaving like adults and the next, like the children they are. She prioritizes listening to her daughter's thoughts and feelings, understanding her perspective, and clearly communicating expectations and consequences.

Boniface Mwangi recounted a candid conversation with his teenagers about religion, drugs, sex, condoms, and toilet hygiene. He highlighted the importance of understanding their viewpoints, even if it means stepping into their world. Mwangi emphasized that having an opinion doesn't require experience, echoing Desmond Tutu's sentiment, 'Don’t raise your voice, increase your argument.'

Dr. Paul Njogu, a medical psychologist, advises parents not to shield teens from difficult conversations but to become their trusted allies. He suggests an ongoing dialogue about sex and relationships, leading with values rather than fear. He also notes that teen substance use is often rooted in stress, curiosity, or peer pressure, necessitating conversations that go beyond warnings and punishments.

Steve Kipande, a film producer and father of three, describes his parenting style as a blend of traditional and modern methods. He believes in discipline but also strives to stay current with teen slang and culture to foster open communication. Kipande emphasizes the importance of involving God in family life through prayer and fasting, teaching his sons to respect women, and educating them about protection and the consequences of reckless living.

Sammy Ondimu, a social media icon and cop, underscores the significance of building a strong, open relationship with his daughters through honest conversations and shared decision-making. He guides them through the pressures of school and social life, emphasizing critical thinking and open communication. Sammy advises parents to let go of the fear of 'doing it wrong' and embrace honest, imperfect conversations, acknowledging that teens are always listening and absorbing their parents' responses.

Navigating social interactions for teens, which now include 'likes, streaks, filters, and emojis,' requires parents to stay curious and communicative rather than controlling. Parents need to understand that it’s not about being the cool parent, but about being the consistent, caring one, as teens are always listening.

From Zeal News Studio(Terms and Conditions)

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