As Millennials and Zillennials gear up to become parents starting in 2025, a new generation is waiting in the wings: Generation Beta. Born between 2025 and 2039, these children will grow up in a different world. For soon-to-be parents, preparing for this new era of parenting comes with its unique set of challenges and opportunities.
Who Are Generation Beta?
Generation Beta is the cohort following Gen Alpha, and they will be the first true “second-half-of-the-21st-century” generation. Growing up in a world where technology, artificial intelligence, and climate change are front and centre, Gen Beta children are predicted to be the most digitally native and globally aware generation yet. According to research by McCrindle, this generation will also be shaped by eco-conscious living, increasing urbanization and personalized education powered by AI.
Cricketer K.L. Rahul and his wife Athiya Shetty are set to become Gen Beta parents.
Challenges Their Parents Can Expect
Raising children in the Gen Beta era will be unlike anything previous generations have experienced. Juhi Pandey, Psychologist with Mpower Helpline, says that while it’s difficult to predict everything about parenting this generation, some challenges are already becoming clear.
1. Managing Screen Time
For parents who grew up with the evolution of smartphones and social media, managing screen time for Gen Beta kids will be a major hurdle. With AI-driven devices becoming household staples, setting boundaries around technology will require creativity and discipline. Pandey says, “Parents will need to model healthy tech habits themselves. Finding a balance between leveraging technology for learning and preventing overuse will be critical.”
2. Teaching Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Behaviour
As the climate crisis continues to dominate global conversations, Gen Beta parents will prioritize teaching their children about eco-friendly behaviours and sustainability. From early lessons on recycling to creating a lifestyle centered around minimalism and environmental responsibility, this focus will define the ethos of Gen Beta parenting.
While the tools and environments may change, some things about parenting remain timeless. Pandey says, “Parenting styles may change generation-wise, but the essence remains the same: to nurture and raise a physically, socially, and emotionally healthy child.”
For Gen Beta, however, there will be a stronger emphasis on mental and emotional health. Millennials and Zillennials (who have already championed conversations around mental wellness) are likely to carry this focus into their parenting. Expect mindfulness practices, emotional intelligence, and open conversations about feelings to take centrestage in raising Gen Beta children.
Tips For Future Gen Beta Parents
Model the Behaviour You Want to See: Whether it’s limiting screen time or practicing sustainable living, children learn best by example. Create a home environment that mirrors the values you want your kids to adopt.
Leverage Technology Wisely: AI and tech tools can be powerful for personalized learning and development. Use them as allies rather than distractions, and monitor their usage to ensure balance.
Focus on Emotional Intelligence: Teach your children how to name, understand, and express their emotions. Activities like journaling, storytelling, or even mindfulness exercises can help develop their emotional health.
Incorporate Sustainability Into Daily Life: Start small, like growing a home garden, teaching about water conservation, or practicing eco-friendly shopping. These habits will help instill a sense of environmental responsibility early on.
“While the challenges may evolve,” Pandey says, “the heart of parenting remains the same: to create a nurturing environment for your child to thrive physically, emotionally, and socially.”
Here’s to raising a generation that’s tech-savvy, emotionally intelligent, and kind to the planet. Generation Beta, we’re ready for you.
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