If you haven’t heard the chatter yet, let me bring you up to speed: If your birth years fall between 1977 and 1983, you’re not just a Gen-Xer or a Millennial; you’re a Xennial. This clever blend describes those who grew up navigating the analog world yet transitioned into adulthood amid the digital revolution. These individuals recall the days of collecting AOL discs, counting free internet hours, and engaging in anonymous chat rooms while asking, “A/S/L?” They reminisced about playing Oregon Trail in school computer classes and rejoiced when their family finally ditched dial-up for faster internet connections.
As a proud member of this Xennial cohort, I’ve welcomed three kids into what we now refer to as the Prime Generation. My children have never experienced a world where instant gratification wasn’t the norm. Emerging during the Obama Administration and now well into the era of No. 45, the Prime Generation has had access to everything they need, often on a whim—thanks to Amazon Prime and its free two-day shipping. From hard-to-find baby items like a NoseFrida or a Moby Wrap to last-minute gifts, Amazon Prime has been a game changer.
Need a fidget spinner or a specialty birthday present? Amazon Prime delivers. Our household receives packages almost every other day, and my kids eagerly await the mailman’s arrival.
But it’s not just Amazon that caters to their desires. My children grew up with the luxury of Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Initially, I used these platforms to regulate their screen time, escaping the clutches of whatever was airing on cable at the moment. I admit, I was that overly cautious mom who scrutinized every cartoon available. They started with shows like Yo Gabba Gabba! and a slew of dinosaur documentaries, easily accessible without the hassle of waiting for the Discovery Channel’s programming. Unlike Xennials, my children can skip shows that don’t meet their expectations without a second thought.
As time went on, I relented and let them explore a wider array of programming, from Amazon’s Puffin Rock to nostalgic favorites like Rocko’s Modern Life and Aaahh!!! Real Monsters. They could binge-watch Dinotrux or Justice League at their leisure. This generation’s media experience is fragmented; they can curate their viewing based on personal preference, unlike previous generations who shared common shows and commercials.
Speaking of commercials, my kids are utterly perplexed when they encounter them. They’ve grown up in a world devoid of traditional advertising. When ads come on during our rare TV time, they ask, “What’s this?” and “When does the show come back on?” While this shields them from relentless toy promotions, it also means they miss the quirky local commercials that were once the fabric of childhood entertainment—those jingles we all knew by heart.
Their musical experiences are similarly tailored. With subscriptions to services like Spotify, we have access to virtually every song ever recorded. One day, we might be belting out Hamilton, and the next, they’re demanding a mashup I found on YouTube. Each request is met with the click of a button. For instance, when my youngest is in tears, playing “Yellow Submarine” is often enough to bring him back to happiness.
It’s hard not to imagine how different my childhood would have been if my parents had access to such technology. The idea of playing my favorite songs without commercial breaks or static is mind-blowing even now.
However, there is a catch. While the Prime Generation enjoys these conveniences, it’s important to recognize that not everyone can afford such luxuries. Amazon Prime’s annual fee is $99, and services like Netflix and Spotify add up quickly. Many families struggle with the costs of devices, internet service, and streaming subscriptions. According to the Pew Research Center, 13% of Americans still lack internet access, often due to financial constraints.
Clearly, my kids are privileged, but their experience reflects a broader trend of instant gratification among their peers. This raises an important question: how do we slow them down? They need to engage with their surroundings, go on nature walks, enjoy long summer days at the pool, and spend time away from screens. While technology plays an integral role in their lives, it’s crucial to ensure they also experience boredom, creativity, and the traditional joys of childhood.
Will we, as parents, provide them with enough “unplugged” time?
In summary, the Prime Generation is defined by its access to instant gratification through technology, shaping their media experiences in ways previous generations could not imagine. Yet, while we embrace the benefits of technology, we must also prioritize the need for balance, encouraging our children to explore the world beyond screens.