15 New Trends That Have Left Older Generations Completely Confused
If you thought newer generations were hard to keep up with, newer generations, born between 2010 and the mid-20s, are here to give you a run for your money! This group of digital natives is already shaking up trends like pros, and let’s be honest—it’s hard to keep up. They’re not just tech-savvy; they’re tech-immersed, growing up in a world where voice assistants, tablets, and YouTube tutorials are as common as bedtime stories. The internet is their playground, and their social interactions are often as much virtual as they are face-to-face.
Their tastes are already shaping everything from fashion and music to communication styles and even how they do school. And while some trends might feel familiar, others are enough to leave older generations scratching their heads. So, buckle up! Here’s a lighthearted look at 15 current trends that are turning the heads of their older siblings and grandparents!
Voice Chat Over Text
Forget long text threads—the current generation loves voice messaging, where they can talk things out in real-time (well, almost). They’re using apps like WhatsApp and Discord, recording their thoughts on the go instead of typing them out. For older generations, it might feel like a missed phone call, and some older folks are still wondering what happened to emojis! Voice chat makes communication feel instant and personal, but for everyone else, it’s a little disorienting.
YouTube as a Primary Learning Tool
Why bother with books or encyclopedias when you can learn almost anything from YouTube? This new generation has taken self-teaching to the next level with DIY videos on everything from math hacks to coding. It’s hard for older generations to wrap their heads around the idea of homework being a YouTube search away, not to mention the “homework hacks” they’re quick to share.
Watching Gamers Play… Instead of Playing Themselves
Twitch and YouTube streams have turned gaming into a spectator sport. The current generation is all about watching top players, learning tips, and soaking up the entertainment without touching a controller. For older folks, it’s puzzling—why watch someone play when you can jump in yourself? Some people from the newer generations may get it from the days of Let’s Plays, but even they didn’t take it this far.
Tiny Celebrity Idols
This new generation has a lineup of influencers who are closer to their age and often star on platforms like TikTok. These “micro-celebs” have followings in the millions and influence trends faster than Hollywood stars! Mostly confused, older generations often don’t know these internet-famous kids, but for the younger generations, they’re household names.
Their Love for AR Filters and Digital Avatars
Filters aren’t just for photos anymore—younger generations are creating whole digital personas with AR filters and avatars. They might attend a virtual concert or change their hairstyle daily, all through their screens. Some younger adults are still cool with a simple photo filter, while older generations miss when photos just captured reality!
The Resurgence of Cartoon Characters as Style Icons
From “SpongeBob SquarePants” shirts to “Peppa Pig” accessories, this young generation fully embraces cartoon characters in a big way. These iconic characters aren’t just for kids’ pajamas; they’re worn with pride! Older generations may see it as a regression, while some feel nostalgic, remembering their favorite Saturday morning cartoons.
Influence of Roblox on Their Social Lives
To current generations, Roblox is more than a game; it’s a social hub where they hang out, build worlds, and create together. Roblox parties and virtual hangouts have replaced physical playdates for many. Older folks struggle to understand the appeal of virtual worlds, and newer generations are just relieved their online spaces weren’t quite as complex.
Making Content for Their Peers, Not Adults
The new generation isn’t interested in pleasing older generations. Their TikToks, YouTube channels, and Instagram posts are for their friends, not for impressing older adults. Their slang, humor, and inside jokes make sense to each other, leaving everyone else scratching their heads at what they just watched.
Minimalism in… Just About Everything
For the new generations, less is more—from clean, empty room decor to bite-sized content on apps like BeReal. This minimalist trend can baffle older generations who value sentimentality and love their cozy décor. Simplicity, however, speaks to younger generations and their need for calm in a fast-paced, screen-heavy world.
A ‘Tablet First’ World
The current generation’s tablet is practically an extension of their arm. They do homework, chat, and play games—all on their tablets, which leaves older adults reminiscing about the days of computers and laptops. Tablets are their classrooms and playgrounds, and they’re not going back.
Digital Stickers and Emojis Speak Louder than Words
Why say “thank you” when a sticker will do the trick? Newer generations take emojis to the next level, often stringing them together into full sentences. Older generations are still decoding them, and even some young adults struggle to keep up with this new emoji vocabulary.
Short Form Everything
Younger generations live in a world where 15-second TikTok videos are all they need. Long-form videos? Hard pass. Some of the newer generations still reminisce about the days of 10-minute YouTube vlogs, while older folks wonder why no one has the patience anymore. Younger generations want info, laughs, or inspo fast—anything longer feels like an eternity.
Climate Change Consciousness
From an early age, current generations have been very aware of climate issues. They easily discuss sustainability, even if they’re still young, leaving older generations impressed (and a bit shocked) at how naturally green choices come to them. Their parents were the first to embrace eco-friendly ideas, but this newer generation has taken it up a notch!
The Allure of ASMR
Love it or hate it, ASMR videos are this generation’s go-to for relaxation. While many older folks may think it’s just weird, and some newer generations are curious but confused, the younger generation finds comfort in the soft whispers and satisfying sounds of these quirky videos. To them, it’s like an instant zen switch.
A Whole New Take on ‘School Supplies’
The current generation’s school supplies now include tech gadgets, personal headphones, and sometimes even their own mini tablets. Forget paper and pencil as their only tools; they need apps, interactive learning tools, and digital organizers. Older generations are stunned at how “high-tech” a backpack can be, and most adults, at this point, are just glad they missed the era of tablet homework!
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10 Board Games to Teach Social Skills
Child psychologists and pediatricians have recognized that today’s lack of play contributes to children’s overall lack of well-being. An increased focus on academic activities, overly structured family, school, and extracurricular schedules have led to less playtime for kids. Board games to teach social skills to kids is a great way to have fun and continue to develop this important skill.
