We’re kicking off the new year with an inspiring Xander mom, Njeri from Kenya. She talked to us about her family, her thoughts on technology and education and shared some great parenting tips with us.
Tell us about yourself?
My name is Njeri Wangari-Wanjohi. I am a poet, writer and mother of 3 – Naomi (6yrs), Wanda (4yrs) & Mosiah (11months). Am a lover of arts and culture. When not spending time with my family, am either at a concert, theatre or taking nature walks.
Tell us about your blog
Afromum is a parenting & lifestyle blog that focus is on career mothers, entrepreneurship and parenting in a digital age. I started it in January 2014 as a way of sharing my experience as a new mother and to write opinion pieces and advice to fellow parents on Family tech. I have a background in IT as end-user and network support administrator.
How do you feel about using technology as part of learning?
We are living in a digital age and the earlier we expose and guide our kids into the pros and cons of technology the easier it will be for our kids to adopt preparing them for the future workplace. I am an advocate of moderated learning using technology. To have an all-rounded child, physical play is still very important. My husband and I have enforced screen rules which ensure our kids don’t spend all their time in front of screens.
What are your kids favourite apps?
Most of the apps from Intellijoy.
What do you love about Kenya and raising your children there?
I love my heritage and the fact that I was born and brought up in the village far off from the city life in Kenya. I love the fact that I can give my kids this same experience; appreciation of their culture, traditions, language and ability for them to frequently visit their grandparents.
TV “Yes” or “No”?
Yes but in moderation. We enforce screen times for all media types.
What is in the lunchbox?
Some sweet potatoes, cashew nuts and an apple.
How do you balance it all – in one sentence?
I honestly have no idea, I just wing it.
Do you children do chores at home, if so what and how do you manage it?
Yes. They clean the tables after meals and lately I have been teaching Naomi & Wanda how to wash their handkerchiefs and panties. I supervise them closely.
What is your favourite holiday plans/ activities with kids?
Visiting their grandmother in the village. She has a big farm with lots of domestic animals, fruits and coffee. We spend a lot time in outdoors helping out.
Catch up with Njeri on her blog here or on Facebook and Twitter.
