Parenting Tools for Nigerian Parents

Parenting is a challenging job that requires patience, love, and dedication. While it can be overwhelming at times, having the right tools can make a huge difference in the lives of both parents and children. Here are seven parenting tools that can help Nigerian parents in various ways.

• 1. Life360 App — Keep Tabs on Your Kids Without Hovering
• 2. Cozi or OurHome — Share Chores, Calendars, and Family Routines
• 3. Audible + Parenting Books — Learn While You Cook, Wait or Drive
• 4. YouTube Kids — Turn Screen Time Into Learning Time
• 5. Parenting WhatsApp Groups — A Supportive Community
• 6. Printable Routine Charts — Reduce Stress with Structure
• 7. Therapy — Taking Care of Your Mental Health

These tools can help parents manage their daily routines, communicate effectively with their children, and stay organized. They can also provide emotional support and help parents develop healthy habits.

1. Life360 App — Keep Tabs on Your Kids Without Hovering

The Life360 app is a lifesaver for parents who want to keep tabs on their kids without hovering over them. It allows parents to track their child’s location in real-time, set alerts for common destinations, and even see their phone battery percentage. This app is especially useful for parents who live in Nigeria and face challenges like unreliable childcare, traffic, and power outages. With Life360, parents can rest assured that their children are safe and sound.

2. Cozi or OurHome — Share Chores, Calendars, and Family Routines

Cozi and OurHome are family management apps that allow parents to share household tasks, set reminders for everyone, and even assign chores to children with rewards. These apps are perfect for co-parenting setups or working parents who need help keeping track of everything. They provide a shared family calendar, create grocery lists, track school assignments, and organize house chores, all from their phones. This tool helps families communicate better and stay on top of things without nagging or shouting.

3. Audible + Parenting Books — Learn While You Cook, Wait or Drive

Audible is a great tool for parents who want to learn new parenting skills while doing everyday activities. With Audible, parents can listen to parenting books while cooking, waiting in traffic, or even during school runs. Some recommended parenting books for Nigerian parents include “How to Talk So Kids Will Listen” and “Raising Boys Who Do Better”. These books provide valuable insights and practical advice on parenting.

4. YouTube Kids — Turn Screen Time Into Learning Time

YouTube Kids is a great tool for parents who want to control what their children watch and make sure it’s age-appropriate and educational. This app allows parents to set screen time limits, block unwanted content, and choose what categories their child can explore. There are many Nigerian and African-centred shows available on YouTube Kids, such as “Akili and Me”, “Bino and Fino”, and “Super Sema”. This app is perfect for toddlers and pre-schoolers, and it provides a breather for parents when they need a few quiet minutes.

5. Parenting WhatsApp Groups — A Supportive Community

Parenting WhatsApp groups and communities provide a supportive space for parents to share their experiences, ask for advice, and get emotional support. These groups are a great way for parents to connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Some popular parenting groups in Nigeria include LagosMums and Mothers United on Instagram. These groups offer a wealth of information and resources on parenting, including advice on schools, potty training, and dealing with picky eaters.

6. Printable Routine Charts — Reduce Stress with Structure

Printable routine charts are a great tool for parents who want to reduce stress and create a sense of structure in their daily lives. These charts provide a visual reminder of what to do, when to do it, and help children develop good habits. You can find printable routine charts online or create your own with paper and markers. Hang them in your child’s room or hallway, and use small rewards to encourage them. This tool is especially helpful for toddlers and children in primary school.

7. Therapy — Taking Care of Your Mental Health

Therapy is a vital tool for parents who want to take care of their mental health. As a parent, it’s easy to put your own needs last, but neglecting your mental health can affect your relationships with your children. Therapy is a great way to address emotional issues, develop coping strategies, and improve your overall well-being. There are many therapy platforms available in Nigeria, including WellaHealth, Mentally Aware Nigeria, and BetterHelp. These platforms offer affordable therapy sessions tailored to Nigerian parents and couples. In conclusion, these seven parenting tools can make a huge difference in the lives of both parents and children. By using these tools, parents can manage their daily routines, communicate effectively, and stay organized. They can also provide emotional support and help parents develop healthy habits. So, try one of these tools this week and see how it can make your parenting experience more enjoyable and fulfilling.