As we welcome Generation Beta this year—children born between 2025 and 2039—it’s easy to get swept up in the headlines predicting their future. Reports like Prudential’s recent study that I read about at Parents.com offer bold projections about the technological, financial, and societal shifts Gen Beta might experience. But instead of revisiting these predictions, I want to explore a different angle: How can we actively shape a better future for them, starting now? Because the future isn’t exactly written, it’s shaped, and we play a part in that.
As someone who leads a company dedicated to supporting new parents with a commitment to advocacy for families, I’ve seen firsthand the power of small, intentional changes, whether that is in passing legislation or the power of community support.
The future doesn’t just happen to us—it’s something we create.
So rather than passively wondering what Gen Beta’s world will look like, let’s focus on actionable steps we can take today to ensure their future is one of connection, balance, and opportunity.
My Wishlist for Generation Beta
When I wrote Go Ask Your Mothers, I envisioned a world—the sooner the better—where parents and families are supported in all facets of life. Here’s what I hope we can build together for Gen Beta:
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Workplaces That Reflect Human Needs: The workplace of the future will likely look nothing like today’s. Predictions of AI-driven efficiency and flexible schedules are promising, but let’s advocate for more than just convenience. True work-life balance should be the goal. Parents of Gen Beta kids can push for workplace cultures that prioritize mental health, family time, and meaningful work. Imagine a world where flexibility allows parents to attend soccer games or care for a sick child without fear of repercussions, and where employees’ well-being is seen as a core business value. If we work on this now, we will lay the groundwork for our kids to experience this from the start of their careers.
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A Culture of Equity and Inclusion: From diversity in leadership to systemic support for marginalized communities, let’s build a society where every Gen Beta child has an equal shot at success. This means breaking down barriers that prevent access to education, healthcare, and opportunities for advancement. It’s about teaching our kids to value inclusion, embrace differences, and advocate for fairness in their communities. Parents can model this by fostering conversations about equity at home, supporting initiatives that uplift underrepresented groups, and ensuring their children grow up with a sense of social responsibility and justice.
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The Power of Altruism: While technology will undoubtedly play a huge role in Gen Beta’s lives, parents today can still emphasize the importance of community and real human interactions—I’m a huge proponent of volunteerism. For me, that has meant leading Girl Scout troops, contributing financially to nonprofit organizations, and volunteering time with community groups in need. These acts of service teach empathy, responsibility, and the value of working (together) toward something greater than oneself. Imagine a future where Gen Beta grows up seeing altruism as a way of life, equipping them with the emotional intelligence and humanity they’ll need to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
Shaping the Future Together
The future isn’t fixed; it’s waiting for us to guide it—one intentional step at a time. We can build a world where Generation Beta feels prepared, supported, and inspired to thrive—not just because of what they achieve, but because of who they become. Every choice we make today, no matter how small, is a step toward shaping a better tomorrow for them. In fact, we could predict the future if we shape it to be the destiny we want it to be.
Sarah Wells is the author of Go Ask Your Mothers: One Simple Step for Managers to Support Working Moms for Team Success, and CEO & founder of a mission-driven brand empowering parents with innovative breastfeeding support products. She also leads the Otrera Collective, a mastermind supporting woman-owned small businesses. Sarah collaborates with Employee Resource Groups, management teams, and leadership events to help organizations foster supportive, thriving environments for working moms. Connect with Sarah through Substack, via LinkedIn or directly here.
