Raising Gen Alpha

Right now, you are busy raising Gen Alpha. Born between 2010 and 2024, their defining traits are still developing, but with the oldest kids turning 15 this year, we are seeing some key influences that have and will continue to impact their development. Gen Alpha is growing up in a world vastly different from that of previous generations. They are the first generation to be fully immersed in digital technology from birth, often learning to navigate smartphones, tablets, and Alexa before they can even speak in full sentences. Understanding the unique traits of Gen Alpha can help us engage with them more intentionally and personally. While every child is different, researchers and educators have begun to see some patterns.

THEY ARE DIGITAL NATIVES.

They are the first generation to grow up fully immersed in smartphones, tablets, AI, and streaming services. Many of these kids began swiping a screen before they could walk. Gen Alpha is very comfortable with technology and can teach adults a thing or two about it. Due to their familiarity with technology, you can use it to make a spiritual impact in their lives. Utilize faith-based content like Bible apps, Christian YouTube channels, and interactive devotionals to connect with them through digital sources.

THEY ARE CURIOUS.

With more access to information than ever, Gen Alpha kids have the opportunity to learn new things rapidly. This generation is often inquisitive and loves learning, especially through visual and interactive content. You can encourage your child’s curiosity about God, creation, and the Bible by introducing them to engaging sources of information. Use resources that include apologetics for kids (learning how to defend different aspects of our faith using factual information and the truth of God’s Word), story-based devotionals, and discussions based on open-ended questions.

THEY ARE EMOTIONALLY AWARE.

Many schools and media sources engage kids in social-emotional learning, which helps them develop skills to understand and manage their emotions, build healthy relationships, and make responsible decisions. Gen Alpha is more aware of feelings and mental health than previous generations. You can teach them that emotions are part of how God made us and also that truth is rooted in scripture rather than our feelings. Help your kids understand how to bring their feelings to God in prayer and how the Bible talks about things like anxiety, fear, and joy.

THEY CARE ABOUT DIVERSITY AND INCLUSIVITY.

Gen Alpha is growing up in a more globally connected, multicultural world. They value fairness and kindness, especially toward those who are different from them. They see diversity and inclusivity as a positive thing to embrace. Culture has a lot to say about this that often opposes our Christian beliefs. It’s important to teach children how Jesus showed us what it means to extend love and inclusion without compromising the truth. Help them understand what it means to love others while standing firm in their faith.   

Here are some ways we can be intentional about raising Christ-centered kids in our rapidly changing culture:

SHOW THEM WHAT AUTHENTIC FAITH LOOKS LIKE.

Children today are excellent observers. More than ever, Gen Alpha needs to see that faith is real—not just something we pull out on Sunday mornings. Model for them what it means to trust God in both the joys and the difficulties of life. Talk about your relationship with God. Let them hear your prayers, share what you’re learning from God’s Word, and have them serve alongside you. Even if it feels uncomfortable at first, showing them through your example what it means to be a follower of Jesus every day is our God-given responsibility and privilege.

HELP THEM DEVELOP BIBLICAL KNOWLEDGE.

In a world of TikTok and YouTube influencers who don’t always share our spiritual values and often focus on things contrary to our beliefs, it’s important to make sure kids know what God says. They need a strong foundation in the truth of God's Word. But that doesn’t mean forcing Bible reading—it means making it meaningful and age-appropriate. Use interactive Bible apps or devotionals designed for kids, memorize verses as a family, or listen to podcasts that bring the Bible to life.

ESTABLISH BOUNDARIES WITH TECHNOLOGY FOR THEM.

Technology is a defining part of Gen Alpha. Instead of tossing technology away entirely, teach kids how to use it wisely and to be able to sift through digital content to find trustworthy sources. One very important thing you can do to decrease the negative impact of technology is to set definite limits on screen time and be consistent in enforcing them. Help your kids choose content that is wholesome and encourage them to look to Christian media for music, games, and videos. Replace screen time with activities like playing outside, reading books, going on a family walk, or building a fort.

LET THEM BE CURIOUS AND ALSO EXPRESS DOUBTS.

Gen Alpha is naturally curious and will be exposed to many worldviews. It’s essential to create a safe environment where they can ask tough questions about faith, God, and the Bible. Sometimes, we shy away from questions that we don’t know answers to or questions that display doubts about spiritual beliefs. Find answers to their questions together. Also, keep in mind that questioning God doesn’t mean that your child is walking away from faith; instead, it’s a way for them to deepen their faith. Doubt is not a bad thing, but our silence is. If our kids feel like they can’t ask questions at home, they’ll look for answers from the internet or peers who may not share your values.

PRAY FOR THEM OFTEN.

Gen Alpha will face spiritual battles we may not fully understand yet, and they need to know we are diligently praying for them. Ask the Lord to give your kids wisdom, a desire for His Word, strong friendships built on shared faith, and courage to stand up for truth in a world that tells them truth is relative.

Raising Gen Alpha to love and follow God won’t happen by chance. It will take our understanding of this generation, intentional investment in our children, the Lord’s grace, and our faithful prayers. With the Lord’s help, we can plant seeds of faith that will equip our kids to hold on to Him as they grow up in a rapidly changing world. When we continually point Gen Alpha toward Jesus’ truth that never changes, we make an eternal impact in their lives for their good and God’s glory.