What Do Kids Like These Days?

Childhood is a time of wonder, imagination, and boundless energy. As I grew up, the world around me was filled with toys and friends that held great importance. I cherished playing with my favorite toys, trying thrilling adventures with my friends, and immersing myself in imaginative games. However, as time passed, I couldn’t help but notice the rapid advancements in technology that were transforming our lives. This transformation extended to children, who now prefer smartphones, tablets, iPads, and other advanced technologies.

It’s clear that as generations progress, children’s interests and preferences also evolve. Kids are exposed to various entertainment, technology, and trends in today’s fast-paced digital age.

Join us as we uncover what kids really like these days. We’ll explore the exciting landscape of modern children’s preferences, from toys and games to music and fashion.

1. Undivided Love and Attention

Children crave undivided love and attention as it builds their emotional well-being. Life in today’s era is tough and busy, as a parent or guardian you must take out a good amount of time to make them feel special. 

a. Lunch Notes:

Slip heartfelt notes expressing love and encouragement into their lunchbox.

b. Extra Treats:

Surprise them with an additional piece of their favorite chocolate or snack.

c. Quality Time:

Take out some of your time, to play with them or a small bedtime talk that would give them a sense of comfort and value.

d. Engagement:

Be someone whom they can share their interests with and try to be a part of their ideas or plans whenever required.

2. Tech-Savvy Marvels

a. Video Games Galore

From immersive virtual reality experiences to multiplayer adventures, video games have become a central part of kids’ lives. Titles like “Fortnite,” “Minecraft,” and “Among Us” have captured their imagination and fostered a sense of community.

The two most popular games among kids these days are:

• Animal Crossing: New Horizons

Launched in 2020, it continues to shine as one of the best kids’ games with its infinite replay value, delightful customization options, and enjoyable gameplay for kids and adults alike. The cost of the game is $59.99. Buy Now

• Fall Guys

It is a fun and free battle royale that offers endless fun and customization options, with new shows and collaborations to keep the excitement going. Plus, it supports cross-play for family bonding! Download Now

b. Gadgets and Gizmos

Tablets, smartphones, smartwatches, etc., have become inseparable companions for today’s kids. They enjoy exploring apps, watching YouTube videos, and engaging with interactive educational content.

3. Pop Culture Frenzy

a. Superheroes Take Flight

Comic book characters and superhero movies woo children like anything. Marvel and DC franchises, with their epic battles and compelling storylines, ruffle their imaginations and inspire a sense of heroism.

Recommended Reading: 50 INSPIRATIONAL QUOTES FROM MARVEL MOVIES

10 Most Popular Superheroes according to Google Search in 2023 are:

• Spiderman
• Superman
• Batman
• Black Adam
• Iron Man
• The Hulk
• Captain America
• Wonder Woman
• The Flash
• Aquaman

b. Animated Delights

The colorful world of animation continues to captivate kids. Whether it’s the charming characters of Disney-Pixar films or the animated series on streaming platforms, children are enchanted by the whimsical tales that come to life on screen.

What Do Children of Different Ages Like About Animation?

i. Preschool Age (2-4 years old): 

• Colorful and vibrant visuals
• Simple and relatable stories
• Fun and catchy songs

ii. Early Elementary Age (5-7 years old):

• Humor and comedic elements
• Engaging and imaginative worlds
• Positive role models and moral lessons

iii. Late Elementary to Middle School Age (8-12 years old):

• Complex and layered storytelling
• Action and adventure
• Relatable themes and emotions
• Diverse and inclusive representation

iv. Teenagers (13+ years old):

• Complex characters and character growth
• Engaging storytelling and plot twists
• Social commentary and deeper themes

c. Influencer Fever

Kids love following their favorite influencers on social media platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. From unboxing videos to challenges and DIY projects, these personalities shape their aspirations and entertainment choices.

How does social media influence the behavior of Kids?

• Access to diverse perspectives: Social media allows children to connect with individuals from different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. 
• Enhancing creativity and self-expression: Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube allow children to showcase their talents, creativity, and interests to a broader audience. 
• Building communities and social connections: Social media enables children to connect with like-minded individuals with similar interests and passions.
• Access to educational resources and information: Social media platforms can serve as valuable educational tools, providing children with educational content, informative articles, tutorials, and discussions on various subjects. 
• Promoting activism and social awareness: Social media empowers children to raise awareness about social issues, support causes they believe in, and engage in activism.

4. Adopting a pet

Adopting a pet is more than gaining a furry friend; it’s a transformative journey for a child. The companionship of a pet teaches empathy and emotional understanding. The responsibility of caring for a living being stirs them with a sense of duty, nurturing accountability and compassion. Beyond a playmate, a pet becomes a source of enduring life lessons, shaping children into responsible and caring individuals.

5. Creative Pursuits

a. Art and Craft

Kids enjoy expressing their creativity through various artistic endeavors, from painting and drawing to DIY projects. Crafting kits, slime-making, and origami are just a few examples of their hands-on, creative explorations.

b. Musical Melodies

Music plays a significant role in kids’ lives, and they embrace diverse genres. Pop, hip-hop, K-pop, and catchy tunes from animated movies dominate their playlists. Many children also enjoy learning to play musical instruments, nurturing their passion for rhythm and melody.

The importance of music in child development is evident in various ways:

• Happiness and Joy: Music brings happiness and joy to children, lifting their moods and preventing sadness or loneliness. It fosters positive emotions and plays a role in their overall well-being.
• Intimacy Development: Playing relevant music helps build intimacy with children, creating a sense of care, love, and security. Lullabies, for example, can calm them and facilitate a peaceful sleep.

• Imagination Power and Communication: Music enhances children’s imagination and communication skills. It aids in developing neural pathways associated with listening and speaking, encouraging creative thinking and understanding of words.
• Sensory Development: Music plays a role in sensory development by stimulating various brain cells and creating a sense of belongingness. Exposure to different types of music helps children develop a connection with the world around them.
• Educational Integration: Many schools incorporate music into their curriculum to promote children’s engagement and understanding of different subjects.

6. Independence and Acceptance

Who doesn’t want to be free, free to make choices, decisions, judgments, and what not!! Be it a child or even an adult, everybody respects their own choices. Especially if you suppress a kid, they may end up turning rebellious. Encourage their independence by:

• Celebrating Small Wins:

Embrace their victories, no matter how small, recognizing and celebrating their unique contributions.

• Promoting their Decision-Making:

Let them navigate their path by offering choices, and fostering a sense of independence while assuring them you’re a guiding ally.

• Be their Open Hearts, and Open Ears:

Be a safe haven for their concerns, encouraging open communication, and ensuring they always have someone to turn to.

• Respecting their preferences:

Respect their autonomy by avoiding imposition, allowing them to opt out of activities they find unenjoyable.

7. Outdoor Adventures

a. Sports Enthusiasm

Sports activities have always been popular among kids, promoting physical fitness and teamwork. Soccer, basketball, swimming, and skateboarding are just a few sports that kids actively participate in.

b. Nature Exploration

Children still love living in nature despite the digital era. They enjoy hiking, camping, gardening, and discovering the wonders of the great outdoors. Environmental awareness and eco-friendly initiatives have also piqued their interest.

8. Customized Room and aesthetics

In this Pinterest world, where creativity flows in the veins of children, help your child to turn thoughts into reality. Let them take charge of decorating the space they spend most of their time in.

• Capturing Memories with Photo Walls:

 Help them turn their room into a gallery of cherished moments, with photo walls that tell the story of their growing years.

• Expressive Posters and Ambiance:

Help them infuse their space that matches their personality and vibe using posters that reflect their interests and create a cozy atmosphere with fairy lights.

• Favorite Fabrics and Scents:

Wrap them in comfort by bringing them their preferred curtains, bedsheets, and room mists, making their room a haven of personal delights.

9. Toys

The world around us has changed, but children’s fascination with toys has not. To kids, toys are not just playthings but pathways to imagination and learning. They promote cognitive development, enhance problem-solving skills, and foster social interaction, crucial elements in a child’s holistic growth.

Here are some toys for your kids:

a. The Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Baby & Toddler Toy Mix & Learn DJ Table