A recent survey and series of interviews conducted in late May by a local newspaper in Oman examined how parents are adapting to changing parenting expectations. Parents and child specialists described a debate between traditional and modern parenting styles, noting shifts in values, technology use and family routines across urban and rural areas. The report highlights immediate concerns about supervision and emotional support.
Who spoke: several fathers and mothers and a child psychologist were interviewed. What they said: many call for a balanced approach that combines discipline with dialogue. Where and when: interviews took place in Omani communities during late May, according to the reporting team.
Parenting styles in past and present
Parents interviewed described contrasting experiences with parenting styles used by previous generations and those emerging today. In the past, families relied more on communal reinforcement, clear rules and religious instruction to shape behaviour, while modern households emphasise understanding the child’s emotional needs and encourage expression.
However, several parents warned that neither extreme—strict authoritarianism nor permissive freedom—alone produces consistently positive outcomes. Therefore, they recommended selective retention of traditional values alongside contemporary practices that foster autonomy and critical thinking.
How technology shifts supervision and routine
Technology and children emerged as a recurring theme in the interviews, with parents pointing to smartphones, social media and games as major influences on daily habits. Meanwhile, parents said screen time can displace family interaction and schoolwork unless families set boundaries and monitor content.
Several interviewees argued that technology presents both opportunities and risks: it can expand learning resources, yet introduce unfamiliar attitudes and behaviours. Consequently, many parents called for “smart supervision”—regular conversation about online content, shared family rules and digital literacy rather than outright bans.
Discipline, dialogue and emotional needs
Parents and the interviewed psychologist agreed discipline and dialogue must work together to shape behaviour. Discipline that focuses solely on punishment can undermine trust, experts said, while dialogue without limits may fail to teach responsibility.
According to the child psychologist, children need consistent expectations, emotional containment and age-appropriate consequences. Therefore, parents should combine clear rules with calm explanations so children understand both the limits and the reasons behind them.
Perspectives from families
Fathers who were raised under stricter regimes often emphasised responsibility, respect and community obligations as important outcomes of older methods. They also reported modifying some practices to accommodate their children’s exposure to global media and peer influences.
Mothers interviewed highlighted the need to nurture confidence and communication skills, noting that children today may respond better to problem-solving conversations than to corporal punishment. Several parents added that building a trusting relationship helps children self-regulate and accept guidance.
Practical approaches parents are using
Interviewees described a range of practical tactics: establishing household routines, regular family meals, monitored screen schedules and shared activities that reinforce cultural or religious learning. Additionally, parents reported using logical consequences—such as loss of privileges—rather than severe physical punishment.
Furthermore, many families emphasised modeling behaviour as a primary teaching tool. Parents said demonstrating respect, time management and empathy often influences children more effectively than directives alone.
Expert guidance and community roles
Child development specialists who spoke to the reporter recommended public awareness about the interplay between technology and parenting, and encouraged accessible programs that teach parental skills for the digital age. They also noted that community institutions—schools, religious centres and sports clubs—remain important partners in socialising children.
According to specialists, efforts that combine parental training, school support and community engagement tend to produce better outcomes for children than isolated family interventions.
Challenges and implications for policy
Parents identified several policy-related gaps, including limited access to reliable parenting resources and inconsistent school-family communication about behavioural expectations. Therefore, stakeholders suggested that ministries and local organisations could expand workshops on parenting styles, digital safety and emotional resilience.
In addition, experts said monitoring services and educational campaigns can help families adapt evidence-based practices while respecting cultural norms and parental authority.
Conclusion and what to watch next
The local survey and interviews suggest that the most effective parenting styles balance firm guidance with emotional support and adapt to the realities of technology and changing social norms. Moving forward, observers should watch for expanded community programs and school initiatives that promote parental training and digital literacy in the coming months.
Parents, educators and policymakers are expected to continue dialogue about updated guidelines and practical resources; readers should look for announcements of workshops or pilot programs from educational and health authorities as the next step.
