How cultural values influence digital parenting – CEO, Robota, Samuel Ebenezer

No doubt the digital landscape of the world has dramatically altered parenting and it thus becomes imperative that parents come to terms with this development. In the opinion of the Chief Executive Officer of Robota STEM Training, Samuel Ebenezer, digital literacy among parents is not only essential but necessary to be a good parent. Ebenezer […]

No doubt the digital landscape of the world has dramatically altered parenting and it thus becomes imperative that parents come to terms with this development. In the opinion of the Chief Executive Officer of Robota STEM Training, Samuel Ebenezer, digital literacy among parents is not only essential but necessary to be a good parent.

Ebenezer notes that the level of digital literacy among parents varies significantly based on factors like geography, socioeconomic status, and access to education and technology while explaining how cultural values influence parents’ approach to digital parenting.

According to him, cultural values play a significant role in shaping parents’ approach to digital parenting, influencing how they manage their children’s technology use.

“Here’s a breakdown of how these cultural factors can impact digital parenting: Religious and Moral Beliefs; Gender Norms and Roles; Social Expectations and Community Influence,” he said.

Speaking further, he highlights the most pressing online safety concerns for parents in Nigeria

He says, “In Nigeria, online safety concerns for parents are growing due to the increasing access to the internet among children and teens. The most pressing concerns include Cyberbullying, Inappropriate Content, Online Predators, Misinformation and Fake News.”

Using Northern Nigeria as a case study, Ebenezer observes that some communities may have barries to internet access and digital devices, saying digital literacy tends to be lower in those rural areas.

Hear him, “Digital literacy tends to be lower in rural areas due to limited infrastructure, lower income levels, and fewer educational opportunities. Access to the internet and modern devices can be sparse, and traditional means of communication and information are often more common.”

On the question of whether parents are familiar with parental control tools and apps, Ebenezer answers affirmatively.

Saying, “Many parents are aware of parental control tools and apps, though the level of familiarity varies widely. For some, understanding and using these tools effectively is straightforward, while others might struggle due to a lack of technical know-how”

When asked how to ensure children use digital technology responsibly, the Robota’s Chief Executive states emphatically, “Ensuring that children use digital technology responsibly involves a combination of education, guidance, and the implementation of protective measures. Here are some strategies that can help:Education on Digital Literacy, Implement Parental Controls and Safe Browsing,
Encourage Healthy Digital Habits, Teach Responsible Social Media Use.”

He also explains how community-based initiatives or support groups can help parents navigate the challenges of digital parenting.

Saying, ” there are several community-based initiatives and support groups that assist parents in managing the challenges of digital parenting. Here are a few examples:
Parenting Workshops and Seminars, Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs), Online Parent Communities, Parenting Apps and Platforms, Local Churches and Religious Groups, Parenting Coaches and Consultants