Gen Alpha kids know more than us but need guidance – Concerning Kids

We, as parents and church leaders, should prepare to guide and support Generation Alpha (the generation born after 2010). Let’s find out what is so different about these kids.

Kids Alpha are more than digital natives. Digital natives raise these kids. They are naturally raised in a digital environment.

When asked about their dreams, 64 per cent of Gen Alpha would rather be a social media influencer than president. Technology and the internet are inalienable parts of their lives.

How screen time eventually became a painful topic – Mother's column

13-07-2024

Kids are raised by parents who use digital innovations, autonomic devices, and artificial intelligence. Therefore, kids are used to technology that is integrated into their everyday lives, starting with conversations with Siri and continuing with studies with the Chat GPT. They use technology in every area of their lives, including their faith practices.

Kids Alpha have a hunger for community. While they use technology in a very social way, they still have a hunger for face-to-face relationships. They might need it even more than previous generations as they are often one-on-one with digital life while parents are busy with their things.

However, they lack skills in building relationships in the community. Even in church contexts, kids tend to play with gadgets instead of playing with each other. The church should create and provide the space and program that helps kids build meaningful relationships with one another and with older generations.

Kids Alpha need guidance, not just more information. Kids have unlimited access to all kinds of information; sometimes, they know even more than adults. However, they need guidance and wisdom to build a proper and godly world perspective.

Did you know that Beethoven’s teacher did not see his talent? – Concerning Kids

06-07-2024

Solid ground

Once, there was a time when kids only got information from their parents. Still, kids are sinking under the informational loads while lacking someone who can lead them to solid ground.

The latest research led by OneHope states that 66 per cent of Gen Alpha started using a tablet before age 5, and 46 per cent of 6-11-year-olds have an active social media account. 24 per cent of Gen Alpha spend more time with their friends online than in person. 49 per cent of Gen Alpha spend their online time socialising with their friends through chat applications.

The world changes quickly, and our new challenge is to intentionally seek God’s wisdom to understand and fill the needs of Generation Alpha. We should be creative, wise and effective in discipling a new generation that God loves.