Parenting in the Digital Age: A Scoping Review of Digital Early Childhood Parenting Interventions in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMIC).

Abstract

Objectives: This scoping review examines the evidence and knowledge gaps regarding the effectiveness of digital early childhood parenting interventions in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs).

Methods: Using PRISMA-ScR and PICOS frameworks, we systematically reviewed studies published since 2010 from four databases, focusing on the impact of digital parenting interventions on Early Childhood Development and parent-level outcomes.

Results: Of 1,399 studies identified, 13 met inclusion criteria, evaluating digital interventions for parents of children aged 0-5 years. These interventions included digital-only and hybrid approaches, leveraging technologies for tasks such as sharing health and ECD information, reminders, group chats, or screening. Among ECD studies, three of four with parent-reported outcomes found positive effects, but none of three using direct assessments did. Parent-level outcomes, such as mental health and parenting behaviors, showed consistent positive impacts.

Conclusion: Digital parenting interventions are feasible in LMICs but face challenges in implementation and reaching vulnerable families. Most studies are small-scale with variable designs and outcomes. Rigorous, high-quality studies are needed to establish effectiveness and optimize implementation strategies before these programs are deployed at scale.