10 Social Media Habits of Generation Alpha in 2023

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

For parents of Gen Alpha kids, social media habits are a constant worry. It is a decision that parents have to make on how much levy to provide. But as social media grows, the influence on young minds amplifies.

Marketers are keen to tap into the power of the alpha generation, who will have unprecedented influencing strength in the coming years. Alpha members are already nurturing their parents’ shopping habits and daily life.

Gen Alpha uses social platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, and WhatsApp to communicate with friends. They also listen to podcasts and follow bloggers and influencers who provide authentic experiences that speak to their generation.

According to Mark McCrindle, an Australian social researcher, Generation Alpha has more coordination skills than previous generations. They can operate a smartphone or tablet and multi-task in front of screens.

Moreover, they maintain a high awareness of social media risks and challenges, like cyberbullying and privacy issues. They are savvy in their use of technology, using new tools like Siri, Alexa, and ChatGPT to make their lives easier.

Furthermore, they are also comfortable with new technologies. Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools are like an abacus for them in this digital age.

In 2023, these kids will be social media consumers and influencers who need guidance from parents to ensure they are safe online. If you’re one of the parents of Generation Alpha kids, then this blog is for you!

We cover 10 social media habits of Generation Alpha / Gen Alpha in 2023.

10 Social Media Habits of Generation Alpha

As a generation in 2023, Generation Alpha has different values and beliefs than previous generations. They are more politically active than their parent’s generation and value participation over individualism.

However, they tend to be less religious than millennials and focus on personal growth and development, which reflects through their access to digital media.

Video-Centered and Gamified Platforms

Gen Alpha are more likely to interact with their friends online than in person. As such, it’s no surprise that Gen Alpha uses social media sites. 

They spend, say, 8 hours every day across many screens. Be it smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktops, or gaming consoles.

In general, Gen alpha tends to be video-centric and gamified platform users.

• According to a report by GlobalWebIndex, Gen Alpha is more likely to own or have access to smart TVs (+19%), smart speakers (+12%), and mobile phones (+6%) than older generations, and mobile phones have now surpassed TVs as 8-11s’ most used devices (33% vs 30%).

Additionally, gen alpha tends to favor social media platforms that allow them to engage with other users through comments and shares rather than simply viewing content.

Expect Culturally Relevant and Inclusive Content

Generation Alpha, born between 2010 and 2024, has grown up in an era of digital media and technology. They are sophisticated social media users who expect socially conscious and inclusive content from brands they engage with online.

As a result, companies know the type of content Generation Alpha finds on social media platforms and ensure their content is culturally relevant and inclusive.

The alphas are interested in engaging with brands across multiple platforms, including social media and physical locations, so companies must tailor their social media strategy to suit this preference.

Gen Alpha will not tolerate the status quo regarding social media platforms and content; they want to interact with brands in metaverse spaces, like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).

Observe Trends and Share Viral Content

Generation Alpha observes trends and often participates in and consumes viral content. They are looking out for the latest memes, challenges, and fads.

Generation Alpha trendsetters constantly share and observe trends by consuming viral content on social media platforms.

Also, as a marketer, ensure the content you share is relevant and engaging. Gen Alpha is the one who will help spread your message through their networks of friends and followers.

Influenced by Online Videos and Social Media

Generation Alpha heavily immerse themselves in the digital world and are often exposed to online videos and social media.

They are more aware of brand accountability and consumer decisions than Gen Z. It is due to the influence of millennial parents.

Generation Alpha is a highly influential generation with a growing global presence and influence. Their digital literacy skills, and their knack for critically evaluating digital content, make them invaluable for brands today.

Trust Peers More Than Celebrities or Influencers

Although Generation Alpha values influencers and celebrities, they place more trust in their peers.

This generation is constantly sharing personal stories on social media platforms that can be very powerful for brands looking to connect with them on a deeper level.

As Generation Alpha becomes more engaged with brands, they will increasingly want to engage with the brands in metaverse spaces with their peers.

Use Social Media for Education and Entertainment

Generation Alpha constantly explore new platforms and try new things, making them an exciting audience to market.

With unlimited creators and excellent educational content, Gen alpha will gain knowledge of new concepts through social media.

Social media will be their primary source of information and entertainment.

Communicate with Friends Online

For Generation Alpha, online communication is key.

The alphas use social media to communicate and exchange news and information with friends. They share memes and posts and build trust among peers online.

Balance Screen Time with Other Activities

While Generation Alpha may love spending time on smartphones, parents must balance screen time and other activities.

As the alphas build healthy habits, they must engage in reading books or engaging in creative activities.

Moreover, parents of Generation Alpha must encourage them to participate in extracurricular activities, like (non-digital) sports, music, or art. 

Activities outside of school or work will help them gain social skills and develop life skills that will help them succeed in future endeavors.

Furthermore, Generation Alpha must stay healthy and balanced by limiting the time spent on electronic devices, participating in outdoor play or physical activities, and creating a balance between screen time and other activities.

Aware of the Risks and Challenges of Social Media

While social media platforms offer limitless opportunities for content, they also come with risks.

Generation Alpha is susceptible to cyberbullying, as they are still young. They must be aware of the risks lurking with social media use and protect themselves from online dangers.

However, there are ways parents can help create safe digital spaces for their kids:

• by setting clear rules about internet usage
• being active in discussions about online safety
• using parental controls on devices
• monitoring web traffic (particularly during school hours)
• restraining screen time when children are not in school

Creative and Expressive on Social Media

Gen Alpha is creative and expressive on social media and is constantly creating their own content, whether it be through photos or videos.

Gen alpha’s social media habits have become an important way for brands to reach and interact with them as they are visual and tend to scan information with a shorter attention span than other generations.

Furthermore, this makes them highly engaging, open-minded audiences for new ideas and trends.

Tips to Help Parents Guide their Children on Social Media Habits

As a parent, guide your children on social media habits to ensure they stay safe and use it responsibly. Here are some tips:

• Help them understand the pros and cons
• Set Age-Appropriate Rules
• Encourage Safe Online Behavior
• Monitor Your Child’s Activity
• Be a Good Role Model
• Communicate Openly

Related articles

• Building Strong Bonds – how to foster a positive parent-child relationship
• Navigating the Challenges of Parenting
• Raising Confident & Empowered Kids In The Digital Age
• Top 5 Generation Alpha Psychology Trends
• 6 Simple Steps To Strength-Based Parenting
• How will Generation Alpha Impact Education?

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Generation Alpha, born after 2010, is the first generation born entirely into the digital age. Today, alphas are the new generation in the United States and other countries and are growing with iPads, mobile devices, and video games.

Also, the members of Generation Alpha are the first generation born into a world dominated by social networks and new technologies. 

They are also the first generation that will not know a world without artificial intelligence, personalization, and new technologies. As such, their social media habits are unlike those of any other cohort. 

The world of social media is ever-changing, meaning brands must be up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies to reach Gen Alpha. 

By following these 10 social media habits, your brand can not only stay competitive but also gain a better understanding of this generation’s needs and wants.

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