Gen Z Parents: Shaping the Future of Parenting
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Time to read 7 min
Gen Alpha? Gen Z? Millennial? What does it all mean?
As more people are born around the world each year, terms are created and used in everyday speech to define the generations past and present. With an estimated 12.7 million people belonging to Gen Z, many are starting to begin their parenting journeys. As each new generation starts to explore the wonders of parenthood, they redefine what it means to be a parent and raise children- Gen Z is no exception!
This blog will explore the priorities of Gen Z, from inclusivity to digital literacy, and check out Cheeky Rascals’ offerings for tech-savvy, modern parents.
Who are Gen Z Parents?
Many people conflict as to the exact years that can define someone belonging to Generation Z. Some sources claim that this can be anyone born between 1996 and 2009. Others have suggested that it can be anyone born between 2000 and 2012. Although we are unable to pinpoint an exact timeline for this generation, we do one thing for sure- they have grown up surrounded by technology.
What Defines Gen Z Parents from Previous Generations?
A 2023 study conducted by GWI found that across 53 countries, 16% of Gen Z are now parents. With a focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and tech-savvy solutions, these modern parents have often been described as more ambitious compared to the generations before them.
Gen Z is pushing for more sustainable options in everyday life. In a conscious effort to reduce their carbon footprint, many Gen Z parents are opting for reusable cloth nappies, organic food choices, and eco-friendly baby wipes throughout their parenting journeys. Moreover, much of Gen Z research the brands they are buying from before making purchases, checking that these brands align with their values and choices.
Reminding children that they can do anything regardless of their gender is a key priority for many Gen Z parents. A study conducted in the U.S. found that 59% of Gen Z believe that forms or online profiles should include additional gender options. As a result, many Gen Z parents are raising their children in gender-neutral environments to encourage inclusivity. Instead of painting nurseries in pink or blue, many Gen Z parents are opting for colours such as yellow or green. In addition to this, many Gen Z parents are avoiding stereotypically gendered clothing, toys, or sports to remind their children they can play with or do anything regardless of their gender.
Gen Z has been described as the most anxious generation. It is thought that the rise of social media has led to pressure to be perfect. As a result, they have a major focus on the mental health of themselves and their children. Many Gen Z parents encourage their children to talk and express their emotions to promote discussions around mental health and wellbeing.
It has been found that many Gen Z parenting styles focus on a child’s independence and autonomy to nurture curiosity. As a result, this has led to many parents opting for Montessori schools and nurseries. Teaching in these environments uses a hands-on and child-led approach to nurture all aspects of a child’s development.
Montessori teaching can happen in and outside of the classroom with the beautiful Ziza Play Kit. Designed with the Montessori method in mind, the Ziza Play Table emphasises accessibility and independence for children. It blends effortlessly into any home, becoming the perfect place for your little one to explore their creativity. It’s easy-to-wipe surfaces make this the perfect playtime addition.
Whilst it can be good to be aware of the different types of generations, it is important that we do not only define people by the time that they were born. Someone who defines themselves as a Millennial may also have characteristics associated with Gen Z, such as being tech-savvy, inclusive, or sustainable.
Tech for Modern Parenting
Gen Z is the most tech-savvy generation to date. Growing up surrounded by the huge technological advancements of the 21 st century means that this bunch is turning towards digital alternatives to help along their parenting journeys. Digital tools can now be used to help simplify everyday tasks, as well as save time. This can help to provide an unparalleled peace of mind for parents. There are many ways that the Cheeky Rascals family can help:
It has been reported that parents lose an average of 133 night’s worth of sleep before their little one turns one. We know that poor sleep can contribute to higher levels of anxiety, particularly for new mothers. Technology such as the Owlet Dream Duo™ allows parents to monitor what matters most! 84% of Owlet users report that their Owlet baby monitor has calmed their parental anxiety. This complete smart baby monitoring system provides real-time tracking of pulse rate, oxygen levels, and sleep patterns, delivering health notifications. This technology provides a helping hand, allowing parents to monitor their children in an instant. This in turn alleviates some of the stresses that can come with parenting.
Gen Z parents are constantly looking for new ways to simplify the parenting processes that are necessary but can be time-consuming. For example, traditional methods of making a baby bottle can take up to 30 minutes. During this time, your little one may be crying or fussing, and you are looking at the clock wishing you could speed up time. Never fear! The Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced is here! The Baby Brezza Formula Pro Advanced automatically measures and mixes formula to the perfect consistency and temperature at the push of a button. The best bit- it does it all within 15 seconds! Customisable with 3 temperature settings, this is the faster, more accurate, and more hygienic way to make baby bottles. Ensuring a hassle-free feeding experience, this handy piece of tech is the perfect addition to any formula-feeding routine.
Trying to keep your baby asleep whilst on the go can be a challenge! Their little minds are so excited to see the world around them that they would rather stay awake and watch the world go by than sleep. Winner of the Gold 2024 Dadsnet award for Gold Best Sleeptime Accessory, the Rockit Rocker fits onto all prams and strollers. This handy device stimulates the gentle rocking that parents often recreate to help their little ones drift off. It has an adjustable speed dial and is safe to use from birth. Helping busy parents to multitask, it is the perfect accessory for parents on the go!
The NHS recommends sterilising baby bottles until a newborn reaches at least 12 months old. Although this is such a vital task for parents, it is time-consuming. The Baby Brezza Steriliser Dryer Advanced is a great addition to any daily routine. The Baby Brezza Steriliser Dryer Advanced has the largest capacity of any steriliser, holding 8 bottles, 2 full breast pump part sets, soothers, and accessories from any brand. Customisable with four modes to suit your needs, it kills 99.9% of germs with natural steam, then automatically dries 33% faster saving you precious time. Less time sterilising, means more time for cuddles with your little one.
There are many ways to clean, sterlise, and dry your baby bottles, parts, and accessories. However, with the average newborn drinking between 10 to 14 bottles a day, traditional processes to complete this task can be lengthy and may not effectively clean or sterilise the parts. The Baby Brezza Bottle Washer Pro automatically washes, sterilises, and dries bottles, pump parts, and sippy cups. It is customisable with six cleaning modes and kills 99.9% of germs with steam, then dries with HEPA-filtered hot air. During its initial launch, the Baby Brezza Bottle Washer Pro sold out within 2 months, helping many families around the UK to minimize the amount of time spent doing the daily washing of bottles! For those looking to never use a bottle brush again, this is the perfect accessory!
Nurturing Curiosity
Although technology can be a great investment to enhance the parenting journey, it should only be used to complement parenting. Although parenting tech can help speed up daily tasks, it is important to make time for precious family moments. Studies found that although Gen Z does use technology within their everyday lives, they are conscious that an overreliance on it can prevent precious moments of connection from happening. Balancing tech and traditional play within your routine will allow you and your child to create precious memories that you will both remember for a lifetime.
With Gen Z currently shaping the face of parenting, they are redefining what it means to be a parent. With a current push towards more sustainable and inclusive choices for themselves and Generation Alpha, we can only wonder what parenting trends there will be in the next twenty years! It is important to remember that parenting in each generation comes with its own difficulties and challenges. Therefore, it is important to find what works best for you and your family.
Author - Chloe Markey
Chloe Markey is a freelance writer who specialises in script and blog writing. With a particular passion for podcasts, Chloe has been involved in the production of multiple podcast series, ranging from true crime to our very own The Cheeky Rascals Podcast. She has an avid interest in the world of parenting and has learnt lots since working with Cheeky Rascals!