Father’s Day: How tech is bringing dads and kids closer

It’s another beautiful Father’s Day, and it’s time to thank all the dads for their love and hard work for the family.

Father’s Day hardly gets as much pomp and pageantry as Mother’s Day. Traditionally, fathers were often seen as the distant authority figures in many African cultures. In places like Ghana, South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya, kids “shivered” when their fathers walked into the room.

But guess what? Times are changing faster than a Kenyan sprinter, and so is the role of dads. They’re becoming more approachable, and technology is the secret sauce to bridging the generational gap.

From “Shivers” to “Chilling”: The Changing Dynamics of Fatherhood

Back then, the distance between fathers and their kids wasn’t just about miles; it was emotional, too. Dads were busy putting bread on the table, often working long hours. When they were home, the interactions were more about discipline than fun. It was like living with a friendly yet fearsome lion in the house. But the modern dad is evolving. He’s more present and engaged, and with tech on his side, he’s finding cool new ways to connect with his kids.

Video Calls: Bridging the Physical Distance

Apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, and FaceTime have become the MVPs in family connections. Whether a father is in Lagos for business while his family is in Accra or he’s working late in Johannesburg, a quick video call can turn things around. These calls are not just about saying goodnight; they’re about sharing laughs, helping with math homework, and catching up on the latest school drama. It’s like teleporting across continents without leaving your chair.

Online Gaming: A New Playground

Online gaming platforms like Fortnite, FIFA, and Minecraft are not just kids’ domains anymore. Dads are jumping in, too, creating a new digital playground. It’s not unusual to hear about dads and kids “jamming” together online in Nairobi. These games offer a space to strategise, collaborate, and, most importantly, have fun together. It’s a chance for dads to dive into their children’s world, share their interests, and build stronger bonds through play. Imagine a dad in Accra teaming up with his kid to take down a virtual monster—it’s family bonding, 21st-century style.

Collaborative Tools: Working Together

Tools like Google Docs and Trello aren’t just for the office. They can also be used for family projects. Whether planning a trip to the Kruger National Park or organising a birthday party in Abuja, these tools help families work together efficiently. Fathers and children can share ideas, assign tasks, and track real-time progress, fostering teamwork and communication.

Smart Home Devices: Interactive Family Time

Smart home devices like Amazon Echo, Google Home, and Apple HomePod are becoming central to family life. In Cape Town, families might use these devices to play music, set reminders, or even tell bedtime stories. Fathers can use these gadgets to make daily routines more engaging and interactive, turning chores into fun activities and ensuring they stay connected with their kids even during the busiest days.

Social Media: Sharing Life’s Moments

Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok offer unique ways for fathers and kids to share their lives. Posting photos, celebrating achievements, and commenting on each other’s updates helps keep the connection alive. A dad in Lagos can share a video of his child’s soccer game in Nairobi, and they can both enjoy the moment together despite the distance.

Gone are the days when dads were the distant, authoritative figures that made kids quake in their boots. Today’s dads are more approachable, more engaged, and, thanks to technology, more connected than ever. This Father’s Day, we’re not just celebrating the role of fathers but also the tech that helps them build stronger bonds with their kids. So, here’s to the modern dad—embracing tech, bridging gaps, and creating lasting memories with their kids.