Gentle parenting: The new war over how to raise children

From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
For generations, the sound of a cane, a raised voice or a stern warning was considered part of growing up in many Nigerian homes. Children were expected to obey without questioning and understand that disobedience came with consequences.
Today, a different parenting philosophy, known as gentle parenting, is gaining ground across many Nigerian homes. Popularised by social media and conversations around child development, it emphasises empathy, communication and understanding while maintaining clear boundaries.
Unlike the authoritarian style many Nigerian parents grew up with, gentle parenting encourages parents to understand the emotions behind a child’s ...