Parental Evaluation and Challenges in Ict-Based Child Monitoring

This study examines the evaluation and challenges of an ICT-based child monitoring system, Ottabai, introduced by local governments in Japan. A survey of parents in Fukuoka City and Onojo City showed that many parents gained reassurance from confirming their children’s school commute times, indicating reduced psychological burden. However, high costs of paid plans, limited access to detailed location information, and regional conditions were identified as challenges. The system was not associated with changes in children’s independent mobility, suggesting that Ottabai functions as a complementary ICT tool supporting parents’ sense of security.