Kids on spacehey (+more) P.S. sorry I write like a boring news article XD

I understand why some people are critical of younger individuals online, and even those my own age. It's true that some behavior can be cringeworthy, and a desire to connect with peers your own age is completely natural. I get that, but at the same time, I also disagree with the blanket dismissal of younger people.

While it's easy to point out how some kids "ruin things," let's be honest: most of us made mistakes and were a bit messy when we were kids. As we grow up, we seek out safe spaces, trustworthy connections, and a sense of who we want to be. And yes, a kid might hyper-focus on a single aspect of their identity, like their LGBTQ+ status or a particular game, but that's often part of the process of self-discovery, especially for those who lack the freedom to explore these things in their offline lives.

Speaking from experience as someone who was taught that perfection was the only option, I can tell you that online spaces offer a crucial outlet. I'm fortunate enough to be able to tell my mom I'm bisexual and discuss my favorite games with her. But as a homeschooled "weirdo," I don't have many real-life friends to share these parts of myself with. When you find people online who truly listen to your feelings, thoughts, and opinions, and genuinely care, it's an incredibly good feeling. It makes you want to connect with others who share your experiences, whether they're trans like you and can relate to your struggles, or they love your favorite band and you can rant about their new album together.

The "New Generation" Isn't Taking Over, They're Just Living

There's a common complaint that kids are "taking over" online spaces, but what does that even mean? Every generation eventually comes of age and engages with the world in their own way. What you're seeing isn't an invasion; it's simply the new generation growing up and finding their voice. They're doing what everyone, regardless of age, ultimately wants: to find people who genuinely care about them, who listen to their thoughts, and who make them feel seen. This desire for connection isn't exclusive to one age group; it's a fundamental human need.

Some people simply need to face the fact that they're getting older, and with that comes the responsibility to not make younger generations feel hated or unwelcome. Instead of complaining about how things "used to be," it's time to recognize that the digital landscape, like society itself, is constantly evolving. These kids are navigating a world that's vastly different from the one previous generations grew up in, and they deserve understanding and a chance to thrive.

Parents: The True Culprits, Not The Kids

What truly frustrates me is the widespread disdain for kids today. While I understand the annoyance, it's often not the kids' fault. Many Gen Z and Millennial parents, at least those who chose to have children, are simply not equipped for the responsibility. They'll often shove a phone in a crying child's face and assume everything will be fine. As someone who got their first phone around age five (my mom, a Gen X-er, gave me her old, barely functional device), I can tell you that screens are incredibly addictive. Anything can become a "drug" if overused, and that responsibility lies squarely with the parents.

If you can't raise a child, don't have one. Kids aren't accessories for your aesthetic or a #Momcore photoshoot. Get off the internet, spend time with your kids, and make memories with them. It's time for adults to step up and guide the next generation, rather than blaming them for the consequences of their own inaction.

What are your thoughts on how older generations can better support younger people navigating online spaces?