Online parenting support: helping millions of caregivers prevent violence

The digital age can amplify the impact of positive parenting in creating safe homes and breaking cycles of violence.

Date: 2025-08-27

Time: 10:00 to 11:30

Venue: Online via Zoom

Evidence shows that childhood experiences shape adulthood. Exposure to violence or adversity in childhood, like family abuse, increases risks of dropping out of school and becoming a victim or perpetrator later in life, perpetuating the cycle of hardship and violence. Parenting plays a vital role in breaking these cycles, but it can be lonely and challenging. Parenting support is now easily accessible through online parenting support apps and chatbots.

This seminar will showcase how online parenting support empowers parents and the lessons it offers on reaching caregivers at scale in the digital age.

Moderator: Senzekile Bengu, Researcher, Institute for Security Studies

Panelists:

• Nicole Chetty, Project Manager, ParentApp for Teens, Global Parenting Initiative
• Karen Ross, Head of Programmes and Parentline South Africa, Mikhulu Child Development Trust, SAPPIN
• Anna Booij, Head of Content Solutions, Clowns Without Borders South Africa