Positive Parenting Workshop Offers New Tools for Raising Gen Z and Alpha

In a world where raising Gen Z and Alpha children presents unique and dynamic challenges, a wave of a new sense of hope and practical guidance has swept through the teaching and parenting community at St. Joseph’s Primary & Junior School in Kangemi, thanks to a transformative Positive Parenting Workshop led by the Loyola Centre for Media and Communications (LCMC).

Held on May 31st and June 1st, the two-day training brought together 33 dedicated teachers, equipping them with vital tools to navigate the emotional, behavioral, and digital complexities facing today's teenagers. From social rebellion to digital dependency, participants confronted the realities of modern childhood and discovered compassionate, faith-grounded ways to respond.

At the heart of the workshop was the recognition that both teachers and parents must shift from authoritarian discipline to empathetic, developmentally informed engagement. Drawing on Erik Erikson’s psychosocial development theory, facilitators like Ms. Cynthia Khanijiri helped educators understand the emotional needs of children at every life stage while emphasizing the critical role caregivers play in shaping trust, identity, and resilience.

Ms. Cynthia Khanijiri (LCMC) during the positive parenting workshop at St. Joseph’s Primary and Juniour school Kangemi.

“Human development is a journey,” Khanijiri shared. “Each stage builds on the last. With love, patience, and awareness, we can walk with our children and shape resilient, confident individuals.”

The workshop tackled modern crises facing teenagers, particularly the pressures of social media. Ms. Teresia Muia’s session on digital parenting revealed harsh truths: many children are silently battling cyberbullying, identity confusion, and emotional withdrawal linked to excessive screen time. Teachers shared deeply personal stories of students acting out, only to later discover emotional neglect, exploitation at home or exposure to online dangers.

Ms. Teresia (LCMC) speaking to teachers about digital parenting at St. Joseph’s Primary and Junior school Kangemi

Through interactive group work, debates, and role-play exercises, educators explored alternative discipline methods such as restorative conversations, reflection activities, and value-based engagement. These methods prioritize teaching over punishment and healing over humiliation.

The workshop also featured a session by Rev. Fr. Dr. Odomaro Mubangizi, SJ, who called parenting “a sacred duty,” urging teachers to become beacons of emotional security and moral leadership. He encouraged a renewed commitment to raising well-grounded children who can thrive not just in school, but in the wider society.

Rev.Fr.Dr. Odomaro, SJ, sharing insights to teachers at St. Joseph’s Primary and Junior school Kangemi about the sacredness of parenting.

The LCMC workshop stands as a symbol of promise, not only for educators and caregivers but for every teenager navigating the turbulence of today’s world. In the words of one participant: “We are not just raising children. We are shaping the future; with love, wisdom, and faith.”

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