The Kids of 2020

Today's kids are living in the shadow of Covid-19. They face challenges and opportunities that most of us never faced when we were growing up. Let's take a closer look at the unique traits and situations that are defining today's kids.

These stats and findings can provide relevant topics for kids' lessons, parenting classes and more.

A recent report from Kidscreen revealed that... 29% of families are facing financial strain. 27% of kids are struggling with the "new normal." 22% worry about their family. 37% worry about their families' health. 17% worry about their own health. 26% worry about their friends. 30% say their are bored most of the time. 47% are unsure how long they have to stay at home.

Kids ages 6 to 12 describe themselves as...

• depressed or sad - 11%

• stressed or overwhelmed - 10%

• mad or frustrated - 7%

• scared or worried - 6%

Issues kids are concerned about...

• racism

• gender equality

• human rights

Kids miss their friends, but are keeping in touch with...

• phone calls - 38%

• FaceTime - 37%

• texting - 32%

• Zoom calls - 28%

• video game chats - 27%

• social media - 23%

32% of parents say they have grown closer to their children during this pandemic.

15 million were out of school due to the pandemic in the month of April.

3 out of 4 kids around the world are still unable to access remote learning because they live in rural or poor households.

77% of parents took over their child's education through homeschooling.

1 in 4 elementary schools did not implement any digital learning solutions.

37% of parents say they have struggled to find a balance between teaching and working.

How kids are spending their time...

29% - using a camera

27% - playing video games

65% - using a smartphone

82% - watching TV

36% - reading a book

48% - playing outside

11% - hanging out with friends

Top activities families like to do together...

69% - watching TV or movies

67% - cooking and baking

62% - playing video games

61% - playing cards or board games

51% - building things with Legos and models

52% - art crafts and projects

What is selling? Top 3 brands among kids 6 to 12 years old.

YouTube

McDonalds

Oreos

Consumer spending

video games increased by $700 million dollars in the first quarter

skateboards - 107%

arts and craft supplies - 11%

books - 117% webcams - 116%

activity books - 458%

puzzles - 37%

non-fiction books and school books - 127%

outdoor sports and toys - 27%

keyboards - 62%

This data provides great insight into the lives of the kids of 2020. I would encourage you to take these findings and use it as a guideline as you prepare lessons, activities, games, etc. for both your online kids and kids who are worshiping in person. This list is a great resource for teaching topics, skits, games and other parts of your kids' worship.

Remember...today's kids are not yesterday's kids. Things are much different than when you were a kid. We must be willing to adapt and make changes to be relevant for today's kids.