Generation Alpha, born roughly between 2012 and 2025, represents today's youngest children. Though aged 10-13, many display behaviors that feel inconsistent with their age - alternating between confidence and deep insecurity, often labelled as "overly sensitive."
Several factors contribute to this heightened sensitivity. From birth, they are exposed to digital devices, spend little time outdoors, and have fewer opportunities for real-life socialisation. Urban lifestyles, busy parents, overindulgence and the COVID-19 pandemic have further increased screen time and reduced direct human interaction.
This hypersensitivity is not merely harmless. It can lead to emotional volatility, shorter attention spans, frustration over minor setbacks, weakened family bonds, and dependence on instant gratification. A child constantly told "you are the best" may struggle to cope with criticism or failure, while lack of outdoor activities limits teamwork, problem-solving and resilience.
Addressing this issue requires balanced parenting - a combination of love and measured discipline. Parents should show affection while avoiding the urge to fulfill every demand immediately, teaching patience instead. Encouraging children to handle tasks appropriate to their age, such as organising their belongings, helps build independence. Participation in sports, cultural programmes, and group activities develops social skills, resilience and the mentality to accept defeat. Reducing screen time in favour of reading books, practising art, music, or other constructive hobbies nurtures creativity and focus. Finally, acknowledging feelings while guiding children to handle frustration calmly fosters emotional resilience.
A famous saying reminds us: "Children of today are the future of tomorrow." To ensure a strong, balanced next generation, we must combine affection with boundaries. Loving wisely, rather than overindulging, is the key to raising the Generation Alpha to thrive in an increasingly complex world.
Laboni Akter Kobita
Jagannath University, Dhaka
laboniakterkobita6@gmail.com
