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Visa West Africa Hosts Yetty Williams of LagosMums to Share 7 Digital Parenting Rules That Actually Work

Gossip • 2h ago
Visa West Africa Hosts Yetty Williams of LagosMums to Share 7 Digital Parenting Rules That Actually Work
**Digital Parenting in the Age of AI: A Wake-Up Call for Nigerian Parents** In our increasingly tech-savvy world, bedtime in many Nigerian homes has become a double-edged sword. Gone are the days when putting children to bed meant simply brushing teeth and sleeping. Now, one more scroll, one more video, or one more reply can be the difference between a good night's sleep and a sleepless night. Devices have insidiously invaded every aspect of our lives, from classrooms to dining tables and bedrooms. Parenting in this new reality is no longer just about guiding behaviour offline; it's about helping our children navigate the complexities of AI, social media, online identity, cyber-bullying, and digital influence. At a recent parents' forum hosted by Visa West Africa, renowned digital parenting expert Yetty Williams of LagosMums shed light on these critical issues. **Raising Children in an AI-Powered World** In a world where our children are digital natives, it's tempting to assume they'll figure everything out on their own. But familiarity with technology is not the same as wisdom. Williams emphasized that our children need intentional guidance, not just passive hope, to protect and prepare them for the digital world. **Creating a Digital Well-being Plan** Just as we have plans for our children's education and values, we need a digital well-being plan to clarify expectations around device use, online behaviour, and conversations. This plan helps create structure and stability, ensuring our children don't navigate boundaries alone. **Setting Boundaries and Building Trust** For younger children, limits are not punishment, but protection. Establishing routines, device-free moments, and consistency helps build discipline and self-regulation. As children grow, the strategy must evolve, shifting from control to collaboration. Parents should engage in conversations with their teenagers about the platforms they use, the role of AI in their schoolwork, and their digital footprint. **Listening Builds Trust, Trust Builds Safety** In a practical exercise, parents were asked to "sit on their hands" while listening to their children. This simple exercise highlights the importance of active listening in building trust and creating a safe online environment. By resisting the urge to interrupt, correct, or react immediately, we can foster a deeper connection with our children and help them develop healthy online habits. In conclusion, parenting in the digital age requires a new set of skills and strategies. By creating a digital well-being plan, setting boundaries, and building trust, we can
Source: Original Article. AI-enhanced version.