The Gen Beta era is here. What will define their journey?
Children of younger millennials and older Gen Z, Gen Beta will be born into a world dominated by technology and AI.
When the clock struck midnight, we all welcomed the New Year with cheers and anticipation. A new year brings along fresh beginnings—be it a new look, renewed resolutions (yes, the same old ones with a sprinkle of extra hope), or new aspirations. But 2025 is particularly special because it marks the arrival of a brand-new cohort: Generation Beta, some of whom will live long enough to witness the dawn of the 22nd century.
Before you scratch your head to do the maths, let us tell you, that Generation Beta includes those born between 2025 and 2039. By 2035, they are projected to make up 16 per cent of the global population, positioning themselves as a crucial demographic shaping the world’s future.
But what will their traits look like, and how will they be any different from the previous generations - Gen Alpha (2013–2024), Gen Z (1997–2012), Millennials (1981–1996), Gen X (1965–1980) and Baby Boomers (1946–1964)? Let us dig into it.
What traits are expected of Gen Beta?
Children of younger millennials and older Gen Z, Gen Beta will be born into a world dominated by technology and AI. Experts suggest this generation will start life differently from their predecessors.
Dr Arvind Otta, a senior psychologist and mental health activist, explains that Gen Beta will grow up during significant advancements in technology. They might even have AI applications powerful enough to personalise their learning and entertainment experiences. These differences may enable Gen Beta to navigate complex digital environments from a young age. Additionally, with societal perspectives on technology evolving, there could be greater emphasis on privacy and mental health concerns for this generation.
Gen Beta will grow during significant advancements in technology. Photo: Unsplash
Riddhi Doshi Patel, a Mumbai-based child psychologist and parenting counsellor, agrees. She adds that learning, entertainment, and social interactions for Gen Beta will shift even further online.
According to demographer and futurist Mark McCrindle's blog post, another defining trait of Gen Beta will be their adaptation to a world grappling with significant societal challenges. With climate change, global population shifts, and rapid urbanisation at the forefront, sustainability will not just be a preference but an expectation. Environmental challenges will shape societal values during their formative years.
In essence, Gen Beta might be seen as a 2.0 version of iPad or “Shephora kids,” complete with a sprinkle of sass. However, like every generation, they’ll face their own unique set of challenges.
‘Indian six-year-old thinks blue eyes and fair skin are beautiful’
Suriti Chakrabarti, a mum of a three-year-old and expecting her second child next month, reflects on how parenting has evolved. Despite enjoying a “blessed childhood” with an open relationship with her parents, she admits her approach will differ due to changing times.
She anticipates a “generation gap” between her children, even though they’ll only be three years apart. One concern she expects to remain consistent is the struggle to build interpersonal relationships in an era of rapid technological evolution.
“As kids, we weren’t as tech-savvy, but at least we could form meaningful relationships. That’s something I feel is developing slowly in today’s generations,” Suriti says.
Dr Otta concurs, adding that while automation and AI might make life easier for Gen Beta, skills like creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence will require deliberate nurturing. These skills may not develop naturally in an AI-saturated environment.
Riddhi also points out that Gen Beta’s reliance on AI could hinder their decision-making abilities. Virtual reality and the metaverse, which are just emerging now, will likely become commonplace for them. However, frequent immersion in virtual environments could blur the boundaries between real and virtual life, affecting their mental and emotional well-being.
She recalls a troubling incident with a six-year-old patient who believed being “beautiful” meant having blue eyes and fair skin—a perception shaped by societal and technological influences. Such skewed ideals, if not addressed, could become more prevalent among Gen Beta.
Kids of younger millennials and older Gen Z
Growing up, many of us discreetly used landlines or mobile phones, careful not to let our parents find out. However, the dynamics of parenting are shifting, even in the Indian context, as younger generations take on this role.
Sushmita Marik, a 30-year-old learning and development specialist and soon-to-be mum, shares her thoughts on parenting in this tech-driven era. She plans to embrace her child’s curiosity by addressing their questions openly and fostering communication.
While her child will grow up in an age dominated by technology and social media, she intends to maintain a healthy balance and prevent over-dependence on it.
Like Sushmita, experts like Riddhi suggest that millennial and Gen Z parents may adopt parenting styles that are radically different from their predecessors. Unlike previous generations, they value flexibility, inclusivity, and mental health awareness. Modern parents are less embarrassed to discuss emotions and mental well-being with their children. This openness fosters vulnerability and communication.
These new approaches, combined with the challenges of raising tech-savvy children, will likely define parenting in the Gen Beta era.
Tips for parents to raise Gen Beta kids
We asked the experts to share some tips that can be followed by the soon-to-be parents. Have a look:
- Foster self-love and acceptance
With AI and social media creating unrealistic beauty and lifestyle standards, parents must instil a strong sense of self-worth in their children. Encourage them to embrace their unique qualities and prioritise inner happiness over external validation. - Balance technology and offline experiences
Gen Beta will be surrounded by AI and tech from birth, making it crucial to create a balance between screen time and real-world activities. Introduce hobbies like sports, arts, and outdoor play to nurture creativity and social interaction beyond digital spaces. - Teach digital literacy and critical thinking
Prepare children to navigate the digital world responsibly. Teach them to question online content, recognise AI biases, and differentiate between fact and fiction. Equip them with tools to handle misinformation and make informed choices. - Emphasise emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills
In a world where social interactions are increasingly virtual, parents should focus on developing their child’s emotional intelligence. Encourage open conversations, empathy, and collaboration to build meaningful human connections. - Encourage creativity and adaptability
As automation transforms jobs and lifestyles, creativity and adaptability will become vital skills. Provide opportunities for exploratory learning, problem-solving, and experimenting with new ideas to help Gen Beta thrive in a fast-changing world. - Set realistic expectations
Avoid imposing unattainable standards influenced by social media or AI-driven content. Focus on your child’s strengths and encourage gradual progress rather than perfection, helping them grow without undue pressure. - Promote family connections
Amidst the dominance of digital interactions, ensure that family bonds remain strong. Spend quality time together, involve children in family traditions, and create a support system that values human connections over virtual ones.
A look back
With a new generation coming up now, we took a look back at the previous generation, from an Indian perspective:
Baby Boomers (1946–1964): The optimistic nation-builders
India’s Baby Boomers were born into the euphoria of independence and the challenges of building a young nation. This generation saw the establishment of institutions, the Green Revolution, and the Five-Year Plans. Their optimism was fuelled by Nehruvian ideals of self-reliance and progress. They valued education, family, and stable jobs, often in government sectors, as symbols of success. With Bollywood hits and transistor radios for entertainment, they were the dreamers of a new India.
Generation X (1965–1980): The self-reliant pragmatists
Gen X in India grew up in a country navigating economic constraints, the Emergency, and the early seeds of liberalisation. They were but the first generation to experience satellite TV, Doordarshan classics, and the rise of consumer goods. With limited resources but growing aspirations, they developed a knack for independence and adaptability. Many sought security in stable careers, but they also began exploring entrepreneurial paths as India opened up its markets.
Millennials (1981–1996): The liberalisation pioneers
Indian Millennials came of age during the economic reforms of the 1990s, a time of globalisation, technology, and opportunity. This generation embraced the rapid influx of cable TV, computers, and international brands. They were shaped by a mix of traditional family values and exposure to global cultures. Focused on education and career growth, they leaned into the IT boom and startup culture. Their love for travel, gadgets, yet building interpersonal relationships (in real life, not online) and experiences reflects the optimism of growing up in a liberalised economy.
Generation Z (1997–2012): The digital natives
Gen Z in India grew up in the age of Jio, smartphones, and social media revolutions. They are highly tech-savvy, juggling TikTok and Instagram trends and coding bootcamps with equal ease.
This generation is vocal about social issues, whether it’s climate change, gender equality, mental health awareness, and is not afraid to take a day or two off when they feel burned out. Their pragmatism stems from growing up amidst global uncertainties like the pandemic (that’s why wellness and health are very important to them) and rising competition for resources. With apps Swiggy and Zomato at their fingertips, they value convenience and ease.
Generation Alpha (2013–2024): The mini-tech experts
Generation Alpha in India is growing up in a world dominated by AI, smart devices, and online learning. They are quick to adapt to technology, often outpacing their parents in navigating gadgets and apps (which can be an issue sometimes). This generation is exposed to endless stimulation through YouTube, gaming, and OTT platforms, which increased significantly during the Pandemic. They are growing up in nuclear families with higher disposable incomes, shaping their focus on individual creativity and learning. With an education system slowly embracing digital tools, they’re at the forefront of India’s tech-driven future.
And now the world awaits the next generation, Generation Beta. Happy new year!
Source: India Today
