A section of parents in Nakuru have resorted to a ‘no phone’ policy for their children, in fear of the dangers the young adults might encounter online.

Susan Wanjiku, for example, says she has a strict ‘no phone’ policy as long as her children are students.

She says the rule is designed to keep her kids engaged in household chores, studies, and healthy entertainment.

“I want them to enjoy their childhood without being constantly on the phone.”

She notes with concern that she has noticed changes in the behaviour of her neighbour’s kids, who are constantly on their phones.

“I’ve seen other children whose disobedience is linked to their time spent on digital devices. They refuse to go to school and have taken up undesirable behaviours since there is no filter for information online. This is something I wouldn’t condone at home,” she says sternly.

On her part, Racheal Nduta, shares her concerns about online safety.

Just like Wanjiku, Nduta also enforces a strict ‘no phone’ policy in her household.

She worries about the dangers of children forming relationships with strangers online and falling victim to kidnapping.

“Many children nowadays get abducted through digital devices by building friendships with strangers online. As a parent, I am afraid of this,” Nduta adds.

Although the two remain firm in their rules, they acknowledge that, in the future, their children will likely use digital devices without constant supervision.

The two parents were speaking at a digital child protection training workshop by Tribeless Youth where they had enrolled their children.

“Nowadays, children have become delicate and sensitive. As parents, we have resorted to correcting them with love. This includes seeking help from qualified experts to guide them along the right path,” says Nduta.

While there is little data on cyberbullying and online harassment in Nakuru County, a report by Tribless Youth and Watoto Watch Network notes that the county is ranked among those with significant challenges in addressing online child exploitation.

Interestingly, cyberbullying tends to peak during school terms when students are more active online and may decrease during the December holidays due to reduced school-related online interactions.

Unfortunately, most cases remain underreported or unresolved due to fear of retaliation and a lack of awareness.

The report also notes a significant correlation between online exposure (time spent online) and cyberbullying/victimization, adding that students who spend more than five hours online are more likely to be victims.

Shiko Kihika, the founder of Tribless Youth, says the series of training sessions are meant to raise awareness among children about digital safety and security, which are key in preventing issues like online harassment and cyberbullying.

No Phones: Nakuru parents' struggle to keep children safe

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Leleti Jassor