SUBMISSION OF PROPOSALS: DEVELOPMENT OF POSITIVE PARENTING CHATBOT (REPEAT)

1. BACKGROUND

Lesotho continues to face significant child protection challenges, including high rates of child abuse, neglect, emotional abuse, and corporal punishment. Many children experience violence both at home and in schools, negatively affecting their development, mental health, and long-term well-being. These experiences are often intergenerational, as children who grow up experiencing violence are more likely to adopt similar behaviors and become violent parents themselves. As the need for child-friendly approaches grows, positive parenting offers a sustainable and evidence- based strategy for breaking this cycle and promoting the safety, emotional development, and holistic well-being of children in Lesotho.

Positive parenting is a caregiving approach grounded in warmth, support, non-violence, clear communication, and age-appropriate boundaries. Rather than relying on punishment or harsh disciplinary practices, it emphasizes respectful guidance and nurturing relationships that foster children's self-esteem, emotional well-being, and healthy development. Positive parenting provides a non-violent alternative that promotes respect, safety, and mutual understanding within families.