Marketing to Gen Alpha might not be on everyone’s radar yet, but it should be. So who are these kids, and why should brands care?
Gen Alpha includes anyone born between 2010 and 2025. Most of them are still in elementary school, but don’t let their age fool you; they’re already shaping trends, influencing what their families buy, and developing brand preferences that could last a lifetime. They’ve grown up with iPads, YouTube, and TikTok in their hands, and they expect the world to be digital, fast, and interactive.
If you’re wondering what they care about, how they think, and what kind of content actually gets their attention, you’re in the right place. So what makes Gen Alpha different, and what does your future marketing need to look like if you want to connect with them?
Who Is Gen Alpha?
Gen Alpha is the first generation to be born entirely in the 21st century, and they’ve never known a world without smartphones, tablets, voice assistants, and streaming. They’re true digital natives, growing up with YouTube, TikTok, Roblox, and Alexa as normal parts of everyday life.
They’re also the children of Millennials, which means many of their values and behaviours are influenced by parents who care about things like inclusivity, sustainability, and mental health. That influence is showing up early.
Gen Alpha has also been shaped in a big way by COVID-19. Many of them spent key early years in lockdown—learning from home, missing out on school, playdates, and time with extended family. As a result, they’ve grown up valuing connection, family time, and creativity. They’re also more comfortable with tech than any generation before them, because it became their lifeline during those isolated years. The pandemic didn’t just interrupt their childhood; it helped define what matters to them and how they engage with the world.
The Habits and Values That Influence Marketing to Gen Alpha
Even though they’re still young, we’re already seeing some clear patterns emerge in how Gen Alpha interacts with the world.
Tech-Savvy From the Start
Gen Alpha doesn’t just consume digital content; they engage with it. They’re learning through iPads, creating avatars in online games, and using voice search like second nature. They’re used to interactive, visual experiences that respond to their input.
Socially Aware and Opinionated
Thanks to their parents and the content they consume, Gen Alpha is growing up with an awareness of big issues like climate change, mental health, equality, and global events. Many already have strong opinions about what’s “right,” and they expect brands to walk the talk.
Creative and Individualistic
Whether they’re designing skins in a game, customizing playlists, or making short videos, Gen Alpha wants to express themselves. They value creativity, and they gravitate toward brands that help them stand out or feel unique.
Influencers-in-Training
Gen Alpha isn’t looking to Hollywood for inspiration—they’re turning to YouTube and TikTok. This generation connects with content creators who feel like friends, not celebrities. Whether it’s a kid unboxing toys or a teen sharing their gaming setup, these influencers have real pull. Their opinions can shape what Gen Alpha wants, asks for, and even what their parents end up buying.
Why Marketing to Gen Alpha Matters to Brands
Gen Alpha may not have the purchasing power yet, but they definitely influence it. Studies show that kids today play a big role in household buying decisions, from food and toys to technology and travel. And by the time the oldest Gen Alphas hit their twenties in the 2030s, they’re expected to be part of the largest and most educated generation in history.
Early brand loyalty matters. If Gen Alpha grows up associating a brand with fun, creativity, or values they care about, there’s a strong chance they’ll stick with it long-term and become advocates along the way.
How to Market to Gen Alpha
Marketing to Gen Alpha isn’t about traditional ads; it’s about engagement, authenticity, and experience. Here’s what works:
Visual, Interactive Content
Think videos, games, and augmented reality. Gen Alpha expects marketing to be immersive and entertaining. Short-form video, in particular, is a go-to format.
Gamified Experiences
Branded challenges, in-game items, or interactive experiences that reward participation go a long way. Gen Alpha responds well to marketing that feels like play.
Authenticity and Values
This generation is quick to spot anything that feels fake. Brands need to be transparent, inclusive, and value-driven. Show—not just say—how your brand is making a positive impact.
Give Them a Say
Gen Alpha wants to be involved. Let them vote on a product design, customize what they buy, or co-create something with your brand. Interactive polls, design contests, or user-generated content are all great tools.
Work With a Team That Understands the Latest Trends That Influence Gen Alpha Marketing
Reaching Gen Alpha effectively means staying on top of social media trends, digital behaviours, and emerging platforms. That’s where working with a marketing agency can make all the difference. A team that understands how today’s content gets consumed and what actually grabs attention can help your brand create meaningful moments that stick.
At 3SIXTY Marketing Solutions, we help brands connect with their next generation of customers through creative campaigns, strategic social media, and trend-driven content that speaks their language.
Ready to start thinking forward? Let’s talk about how we can position your brand for Gen Alpha and beyond. Contact 3SIXTY today at 647-250-1494, or book a free consultation.
