This archive report was first published on 4 July 2020.
As the digital age continues to evolve, a growing number of Kenyan children are spending more time online, with nearly 90% of those aged 3-18 playing video games online, according to a recent study by cybersecurity company Kaspersky in conjunction with Toluna research agency.
Published on July 4, 2020, the study found that 48% of children watch video blogs, including those dedicated to games and toys, while 53% listen to music, 49% watch movies, and 43% play computer games online.
However, the study also revealed that many Kenyan parents are struggling to keep up with these internet trends, with 20% admitting they do not concern themselves with what is popular online, leading to misunderstandings and conflicts with their children.
“Modern parents have to constantly educate themselves and keep up to date when it comes to the Internet trends. There is a strong reason for it – their children. If parents do not know what is popular on the Net, they can have misunderstandings or even conflicts with their children,” said Andrey Sidenko, Lead web content analyst at Kaspersky.
Experts warn that being digitally educated and involved in social media activities is crucial for parents to maintain a healthy relationship with their children and be aware of what they are consuming online.
“Being digitally educated and involved in social media activities is a must-do for a parent nowadays. In order to understand your child, to be able to communicate with them and discuss certain modern trends of the evolving world, you have to read more and be present on the Net. It can possibly save the parents a lot of trouble and make their children respect them,” Sidenko added.
