Parenting a Generation Z. (Gen Z)

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Opinion by Karen Ndabari | Student, KCA University 

A Generation Z child, is one born between 1997 and 2012, parenting one is like guiding a ship through both familiar and uncharted waters. As of 2025, Gen Z teenagers are digital natives, optimistic dreamers, and vocal participants in a world shaped by smartphones, social media, and rapid global change. Raising them demands adaptability, authenticity, and a willingness to learn.

Gen Z has grown up in an era of unprecedented technological saturation. Their daily lives revolve around digital tools, with smartphones and platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) being more than just conveniences, they are integral to their identity. Unlike previous generations, Gen Z does not simply use technology; they live in it. This reality presents both opportunities and challenges for parents.

Open and honest communication is key to building trust with Gen Z. Parents must take time to listen, validate their child’s feelings, and create a judgment-free space where they feel safe expressing themselves. Respecting their privacy and independence fosters openness, making it easier for them to share their thoughts without fear of being dismissed. Unlike traditional authoritarian parenting, a collaborative approach works better, setting boundaries rather than enforcing rigid rules. Explaining the reasoning behind decisions helps Gen Z understand and cooperate rather than simply comply.

Perhaps most importantly, parents must be willing to apologize when they are wrong. Owning up to mistakes, avoiding blame-shifting, and demonstrating growth through actions, rather than mere words, teaches emotional intelligence and strengthens the parent-child relationship. Apologizing does not diminish authority; rather, it models humility and respect, qualities that Gen Z highly values in relationships.

Parenting Gen Z requires a delicate balance of guidance and flexibility, adapting timeless principles to the digital era. By understanding their unique traits, digital fluency, social awareness, and independence, parents can create an environment that nurtures personal growth and resilience. As society continues to evolve, so too must parenting practices, ensuring that Gen Z is well-equipped to thrive in an interconnected world.


Ndabari Karen is a journalism and digital media Student at KCA University. Email: Karenndabari530@gmail.com


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