I recently read an article about Generation Z and became curious if my daughter is part of that generation. According to the Pew Research Center, by being born in 2013, she is part of the “Generation Not Yet Named.” For reference, Pew calls those born between 1997 to 2012 Generation Z, 1981 to 1996 Millenials, 1965 to 1980 is Generation X, and 1946 to 1964 Baby Boomers. I don’t give credence to those broad characterizations of generations, but some common experiences may shape what life is like for them.
The effect of the pandemic
How will being a young child during the Covid-19 pandemic shape my daughter and her peer’s future? Online learning and the isolation from peers may make their attitudes towards face-to-face learning and being with others different than in the past. The focus on washing hands and hygiene may make children more aware of caring for their health. They certainly learned the importance of vaccination. I hope the practice of mask-wearing when one is sick becomes embedded in this generation as a common courtesy (and, frankly, for all generations). I think they will have seen the importance of people working together on a common goal–staying healthy.
Taming Technology?
Will Generation NYN be the ones to tame the technological beast and establish better boundaries around technology? Much has been written about Generation Z’s dependent relationship on technology. Seeing many of my daughter’s elementary student peers bring wearables (e.g., Apple Watches) to school to communicate with parents, play games, and look things up makes me think that their generation won’t be much different. They’ve grown up with their photos easily accessible on social media. They are also likely to be the most remotely monitored with GPS tracking of phones and that wearable technology.
Using technology wisely
At the same time, this generation of NYN should be savvier in harnessing technology to address concerns and communicate on a large scale. I could easily imagine that they might see a pothole in the street, video its discovery, and either shame the city into fixing it or raise the money themselves to have it repaired. Given their early exposure to social media and technology, I don’t think my prediction is far-fetched.
Racial and ethnic diversity
Like previous generations, Generation NYN increases its ethnic and racial diversity. I know that my daughter’s view of others changed when she wrote a story that included boys, girls, and a character who is non-binary. The character’s role in the story is not about their non-binariness–they are simply one of the other kids solving a mystery. That character flowed into her story casually, which is progress, from my perspective as a Generation Xer, of an emerging world of accepting and appreciating others.
Environmental action
Generation NYN is more likely to want environmental action than in the past. These kids have come to expect recycling to occur, are cognizant of waste, and want to protect the environment. They will likely hasten the demise of gas-powered cars. They will continue to grow up with e-bikes and e-scooters to help their commutes and will want efficient public transportation even more. The impact of climate change will be their reality.
New year, new actions
Like most parents, I want my daughter’s generation to experience no wars or strife, have economic prosperity, abundant health, and a clean environment. With the new year, perhaps, I can take a step in the right direction. This year I want to focus more on giving my daughter the experiences that can shape her and maybe spread to others in her generation. If I want her to appreciate the environment, I need to get her outside more. If I want her to unplug from technology, I must let go of the electronic babysitters and engage more. If I want her to care about others, I may have to find her more giving experiences through volunteerism. If I want her to recognize the richness of diversity, I have to take her to activities and events where she can learn new customs and perspectives. The investment we parents make now can help the kids shape their generation into being better than in the past.
Robert (Rob) S. Weisskirch, MSW, Ph.D., CFLE, is a Professor of Human Development at California State University, Monterey Bay, and is a Certified Family Life Educator. He and his wife are parents to a chatty, elementary school-aged daughter and reside in Marina.
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