Updated: Aug. 19, 2020
Originally Published: Aug. 17, 2018
I recently had a light-hearted conversation with a colleague who also has young kids about the quirks of this upcoming generation. What kind of cheeky jokes will we be telling about these kids and their peculiar habits in 15 years? I can already picture myself as a cranky elder, with my teenagers having to explain how to send a text using only their thoughts, while I reminisce about how thumbs were perfectly sufficient in my day!
In my role, I often delve into research about different generations. I’ve heard all about how millennials are seen as the lazy ones, and how Generation Z might just save the world—if they can tear themselves away from their myriad devices. But what about Generation Alpha? This group, typically defined as those born after 2010, is just starting to emerge, and we don’t have a full picture of their characteristics yet. However, after observing a lively 5-year-old, I have some thoughts on what to expect from Generation Alpha.
Instant Gratification
As a “bridge” millennial, I remember a time before Google, when searching for articles meant sifting through microfiche, and a map was my go-to when I got lost. The younger millennials have a fuzzier memory of this, while Gen Z doesn’t recognize the agonizing wait for that AOL dial-up to connect. Generation Alpha, however, will have no concept of patience for anything less than lightning-fast 5G connectivity.
My child often calls out “Hey, Alexa” while in the bathroom, as if the voice assistant should be at his beck and call. He feels a sudden urge to know how fast foxes run and expects an immediate answer, regardless of where Alexa might be in the house. He’s also aware that Amazon Prime can deliver anything he desires within two days. These kids simply won’t grasp the agony I faced waiting for a VHS tape to rewind. For them, instant access is just a given.
A World Without Schedules
We live in a world dominated by streaming services. My childhood revolved around racing home from school to catch the opening credits of my favorite shows. My son, on the other hand, wakes up on Saturdays and immediately flips through Netflix, deciding what to watch based on what’s available. If he wants to see “American Ninja Warrior,” he expects to find it on-demand, and if it’s not there, he’s frustrated. He has no idea what it was like to wait for a song to come on the radio just to record it on a cassette tape.
Bizarre Entertainment Choices
Let’s face it: the ’80s had its share of odd television shows, but today’s programming, like “Yo Gabba Gabba,” takes the cake for its sheer strangeness. My son adored it as a toddler, along with watching people open Kinder eggs on YouTube—an entire genre where kids sit glued to screens, mesmerized by unwrapping candy and revealing tiny toys. The appeal eludes me, but my kid could spend hours on it without flinching.
True Digital Natives
“Digitally native” is a term often used for millennials and Gen Z, but Generation Alpha truly exemplifies this label. I struggle to operate the Nintendo Switch, but my son can set it up and navigate his way through games like a pro, all while having a limited vocabulary! It’s mind-boggling to witness a generation so adept at technology.
Inclusivity and Social Awareness
Generation Alpha is poised to follow in the progressive footsteps of their predecessors. Millennials may get criticized for being entitled, but we’ve championed acceptance and diversity. Generation Z is even more focused on individuality and social change—just look at the students from Parkland who are reshaping the narrative on gun control.
At a recent music festival, my son and his friends welcomed a new child into their playgroup without hesitation. It’s moments like these that give me hope that kindness and acceptance will be at the forefront of their generation’s values.
My hope for Generation Alpha is that they continue to embrace kindness, celebrate differences, and view the world as one big community.
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Summary
Generation Alpha is on the horizon, and their upbringing promises unique characteristics shaped by instant gratification, a lack of scheduling, and a digital-first mindset. As they navigate a world of strange entertainment and inclusivity, we can anticipate a generation that values kindness and community.