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Gen Beta: The Rise of a New Generation
Zakwan Shah
January 02, 2025
4 min
It seems only yesterday that the world was making a fuss about the birth of Gen Alphas, babies born between 2010 to 2024.
These children not only grew up in a wholly digital era, but were the first to experience childhood in the age of the world's worst pandemic.
From January this year to December 2040, we'll see the rise of a new generation: Gen Beta.
Here's what you should know about them.Meet Some of the World's First Gen Beta Babies
In Malaysia alone, there's at least 55 babies born on the first day of 2025 so far.
There's 20 babies from Negeri Sembilan, 19 from Pahang, 6 from Putrajaya, 6 from Perlis and 4 from Melaka.
And there's no doubt that more babies will born in this month and more soon to come.
If you're also expecting a Beta Baby, here's what you should maybe take note of.Interesting Facts About Generation Beta
The first thing to note is that Generation Beta will most likely to be born to younger millennials and older Gen Z's.
They are also the first generation who will most likely live to see the dawn of the 22nd century.
Gen Betas are also born in the era of artificial intelligence and will most likely will influenced by its progress and advancement.
They may also be the first generation to part of Earth's first space exploration programme.
By the year 2035, they will make up almost 16% of the human population.
Unfortunately, Gen Beta is also born in the era of massive social, political and economic upheavals.
These children will also live through the worst climate crises the world has ever seen.
Because of all the flaws and injustices that they grew up seeing, Gen Beta will also be the forerunners in massive global changes.
These include issues like gender equality, human rights, affordable healthcare, freedom of speech and many others
While these sound like 'predictions', they are more like expectations. Hopes and dreams that we the previous generations have for the future descendants in helping build a better world.What Gen Beta Will Be Like
While its far too soon to predict what this new generation of children will be like, experts like Mark McCrindle, who coined the term Gen Alpha (and wrote a book about it), can't help but weigh in.
The social researcher and futurist is saying that despite all this fuss, Gen Beta probably won't be that much different from Gen Alpha.
However, key things will shape their upbringing in more drastic years depending on how the world will look like in a few decades.
The first is that Gen Beta will be exposed to much more technology than any generation has ever been before.
Electronic devices, AI and virtual reality will be a part of their daily lives, from education to healthcare to socialising.
This means that they will most likely be in front of a screen throughout most of their lives. This will make parenting that much harder for millennials and Gen Zs who are already using devices 24/7.
But that's not all.
With the rise of neurodiversity in the world, you can expect a significant portion of Gen Beta to be on the autism spectrum or be born with ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
Even now, many adults are finding out that they have some form of undiagnosed neurodiversity after going for a screening (which means these statistics are even more inaccurate).
There are apparently many people with neurodiversity that have flown under the radar.
It's important to remember that neurodiversity is not a 'mental illness'.
It is also rarely considered a disability or a disease.
It is simply a different way of looking at the world (and something that future parents of Gen Beta need to take note of).Parenting Gen Beta
If you've ever seen or read about Mindy, the future of humanity, you'll see a glimpse of what awaits us as technology continues to be integrated into our lives year after year.
From claw-like hands and hunched backs, to the aptly named 'Tech Neck', our use of laptops and smart devices are taking a toll on our bodies.
As we are already experiencing with Gen Alphas, who are glued to their phones all the time, the reality will be twice as worst if the pattern repeats.
While your kids may not be able to avoid technology for school, it's important that parents reserve plenty of time for outdoor activities.
It is now more important than ever to adhere to a strict limited or no screen time - to ensure that our little ones continue to be healthy.
If your child does is neurodivergent, then it's important to accommodate their needs and learn as much as you can about their condition before labelling certain actions as 'bad behaviour' or 'being naughty'.Gen Beta: A New Generation
While it is much too soon to predict the other challenges that await Generation Beta, let's deal with those that we can change.
We cannot wholly expect the new generation to pick up on our slack and fix a world that previous generations ruined.
So, let's make the planet a better place for our children to live in for the next foreseeable future while they are still young.
Fight climate change and avoid overconsumption.
Practice compassion and kindness to your fellow man.
Be a good example.
With any luck, this new generation will leave the world a little better than they found it, which is what any of us could ever hope for.
Congratulations to all the parents or parents-to-be of Gen Beta babies!
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!
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Wrap Up The Year With A Sprinkle of Wellness at the Life-Space and Pentavite Healthy Walk
Eisya Ereena
January 02, 2025
2 min
To commemorate a year of adopting healthy habits and the resolution to be healthier in the new year, this December, Life-Space has partnered with the Grow & Glow Mama Community to host the VITALITY IN EVERY SPACE HEALTHY WALK.
This event aims to promote overall wellness and gut health by incorporating light physical activities.
Additionally, there were health workshops by a circadian health and functional medicine expert to talk about gut health and hormone wellness, where participants who are mostly mothers explored the vital connection between a healthy gut and their overall wellbeing, as well as to inspire participants to close the year with positivity and a renewed commitment to self-care.
Over the past year, Life-Space, Australia’s No. 1 probiotics brand and winner of the Australian Export Award in the e-commerce category, has been dedicated to educating Malaysians on the importance of a healthy and happy gut.
Gut health plays a critical role in overall wellness, from influencing digestion and immune systems to boosting moods - and for mothers juggling busy lifestyles, taking the time to maintain a healthy gut can be especially difficult.
Hosted in conjunction with the Grow & Glow Mama Community, this wellness walk brings together healthy activities and education in one fun morning.
Recognising this challenge among young mothers in Malaysia, Life-Space collaborated with the Grow & Glow Mama Community to directly offer women practical insights into how Life-Space probiotics and Pentavite’s nutritional supplements can empower them to lead healthier, more balanced lives.
At the event, another trusted Australian brand, Pentavite, was also introduced.
For over eight decades, Pentavite has been providing high-quality vitamins and dietary supplements.
This year, the brand has launched its very-first skincare supplements: Pentavite Niacinamide Plus with Vitamin C and E Tropical Fruit Chewable and the Pentavite Collagen Peptide Glowing Beverage.
More than just beauty supplements, these products are lifestyle essentials for modern women.
Pentavite Niacinamide Plus focuses on skin health by providing UV protection, reducing dark spots, and promoting a natural whitening effect, this chewable supplement empowers women, especially mothers - to invest in their health in accessible and meaningful ways, supporting overall wellbeing while promoting a radiant, glowing lifestyle.
A trusted brand in Australia for over 80 years, Pentavite continues to redefine enjoyable nutrition with its trusted range of high-quality supplements for all ages.
With its newly launched beauty-focused products, Pentavite has introduced new ways to bring women’s health and wellness into modern, more accessible channels.
For more information about Life-Space and Pentavite, please visit their official website at: https://www.lifespaceprobiotics.com
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!
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Think Twice Before Sharing That Photo: How Malaysian Parents Are Protecting Their Kids Online
Eisya Ereena
January 03, 2025
4 min
The topic of 'sharenting' isn’t new.
It’s been debated countless times before.
Yet, in today’s hyper connected digital age, its importance has only grown, making it a conversation worth revisiting.
From a baby’s first steps to their super cute super messy 1st smash cake birthday moments, sharing milestones online has become second nature for many parents (yes, myself included).
It’s a way to connect, celebrate, and treasure precious memories.
But in this digital age, where information travels faster than ever, the line between sharing and oversharing can blur and that’s where the challenge lies.
The Unavoidable Era of Sharenting
It’s almost unavoidable.
Whether you’re a parent who loves sharing daily snapshots or someone who occasionally posts about your child’s milestones, social media has become a digital scrapbook for many families, a space to celebrate memories and stay connected with loved ones, especially those far away.
However, in Malaysia, an increasing number of parents are rethinking their approach to sharing.
Concerns about privacy, safety, and cultural sensitivities are leading to more intentional practices.
From blurring children’s faces to posting only partial glimpses like little hands holding a toy or a candid shot from behind, parents are finding creative ways to preserve their child’s privacy.
Some content creators even opt for completely faceless accounts to curate their content.
This isn’t just a passing trend,
It’s a conscious effort to safeguard children’s digital identities in a world that’s becoming more connected every day.Why Are Parents Becoming More Cautious?
- Digital Security Concerns: The internet is an endless pit hole of unpredictability. Parents are increasingly worried about their child’s images being misused, whether through identity theft, unauthorised use in advertisements, or falling into the wrong hands.
- Privacy Awareness: As social media platforms evolve, so does awareness about privacy. Parents are recognising that what they post today could have implications for their child’s future, from school applications to professional careers. Nobody wants their child’s embarrassing bathtub photo resurfacing years later.
- Cultural Sensitivities: In Malaysia’s multicultural society, the way we approach privacy can differ, but a shared emphasis on modesty and respect plays a significant role. This cultural perspective influences decisions like blurring faces or avoiding sharing too much personal information about children.
- Protecting Autonomy: Children are now treated as individuals with their own rights, including the right to decide how they’re represented online. Some parents are holding back on sharenting to let their kids grow up and make those decisions themselves.
Navigating the Balance: Sharing Responsibly
So how do we, as parents, strike a balance?
How can we share moments without compromising our children’s safety or privacy?
Here are a few practical tips to navigate sharenting in the digital age:- Think Before You Post: Ask yourself a few key questions: Does this post reveal too much? Could this embarrass my child in the future? Am I oversharing personal details? Taking a moment to pause and reflect can make all the difference.
- Limit Identifiable Details: Avoid posting information that could identify your child’s current location or daily routine. For instance, skip tagging their school or sharing photos in recognisable uniforms.
- Blur Faces or Share Partial Shots: If you’re keen to share a moment, consider showing only hands, feet, or the back of your child’s head. This will still let you share the essence of the moment while safeguarding their identity.
- Check Privacy Settings: Ensure your social media accounts are set to private and only trusted friends and family can see your posts. Regularly review your follower list to ensure it’s up to date.
- Have Open Conversations: As your child grows, involve them in the decision making process. Ask if they’re comfortable with you sharing a photo or story about them. This helps them understand their rights to privacy early on.
- Create a Family Album: Instead of sharing every moment online, consider creating a private digital archive or photo album. This allows you to document your child’s milestones without exposing them to the public eye.
Protecting Our Children: A Shared Responsibility
Ultimately, sharenting isn’t just about what parents choose to share.
It’s a collective responsibility that extends to caregivers, relatives and friends.
As we step into 2025 and embrace a more advanced age of technology, it’s important to remember that while sharing adorable moments online can be heartwarming, we must tread carefully, especially when it involves children who aren’t ours.
Before snapping a photo or uploading it to social media, always seek permission from the child’s parents or guardians.
More importantly, avoid sharing images of children publicly without explicit consent.
While we may enjoy sharing updates of our children, not everyone is comfortable with their child’s photos circulating online.
Respecting each other’s boundaries and preferences when it comes to sharing online is crucial as parents.
Let's take care of our kids together, parents!
Happy New Year 2025 with love from Motherhood, mummies and daddies!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!
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The Hidden Danger: How to Spot Red Flags in Trusted Adults Around Your Children
Eisya Ereena
December 27, 2024
4 min
You know those moments when your little one is running around in endless circles, giggling away, and your heart feels like it could burst with love?
But then, a notification pops up, and suddenly you’re reading yet another horrifying news story about a child being hurt or abused.
Before you know it, your mind spirals: What if it happened to my child? How would I cope?
As a work-from-home mummy, these thoughts creep in more often than I’d like to admit, especially on days when deadlines pile up, and I feel like I haven’t spent enough time with my kids.
And, of course, there’s always the lingering questions: Should I send them to a care centre? Would they be safe there?
But deep down, I know one thing for certain: there’s nothing more precious or sacred than my children’s safety.
Knowing I can protect them while being physically present gives me peace of mind.
So, here I am, typing this out while my little ones are just a room away—and the thought of leaving them somewhere else feels unsettling.
That said, I also know that not every family has the same circumstances.
Being able to work from home and keep an eye on my kids is a privilege I don’t take for granted.
For some families, the 'village' that helps raise a child includes teachers, caregivers, and trusted friends.
And most of the time, these amazing people step up, nurturing and guiding our kids as if they were their own.
But then, those distressing news stories remind us of a hard truth: not everyone is who they seem to be.
And as parents, it’s on us to strike a balance between trusting others and staying vigilant.
It’s not about living in fear but about creating an environment where our kids feel safe, heard, and loved.
For all of us navigating parenting, let’s talk about how we can recognise red flags in trusted adults, build open communication with our kids, and stay proactive about their safety, because every child deserves that.When Trust Is Betrayed
The hard truth is that even those we rely on to guide and nurture our children, like teachers, therapists, or coaches can sometimes misuse their authority and harm the very kids they’re meant to protect.
This isn’t an issue unique to Malaysia.
It’s a heartbreaking reality across the globe, with far too many stories of abuse by trusted adults making headlines.
The key takeaway here isn’t to instil fear but to encourage vigilance.Teaching Awareness, Not Fear
Our goal as parents isn’t to make our children mistrustful of everyone.
We instead should equip them with the tools they need to recognise and respond to unsafe situations.
Start by introducing body autonomy concepts early, using simple, age-appropriate language.
Let your child know that their body belongs to them and that it’s always okay to tell you if someone makes them feel uneasy or uncomfortable.
For younger kids, teaching ideas like 'safe touch' and 'unsafe touch' can help build a foundation.
As they grow, these lessons can expand into more complex discussions about personal boundaries, consent, and the importance of speaking up.
Empowering our kids with knowledge, while fostering open communication, is how we guide them to navigate the world with confidence and safety.Recognising Red Flags in Adults
Most predators don’t act like the stereotypical villains we see in movies.
They’re often charming, friendly, and eager to gain your trust.
Here are some behaviours to watch out for:- Excessive Attention: If an adult is overly focused on your child, constantly offering gifts or wanting to spend time alone with them, it’s worth paying closer attention.
- Boundary Pushing: Someone who disregards your family’s rules or boundaries, like as simple as making inappropriate jokes can be a red flag.
- Secrecy: If an adult encourages your child to keep secrets, it’s a warning sign. Open communication between parent and child is key to catching this early.
However, there may be instances where there are no red flags.
This is when its most important to establish a system where our children trust us to protect them.Open Channels of Communication
One of the best ways to protect your child is by fostering an environment where they feel comfortable sharing anything with you.
It’s important not to give the impression, even unintentionally, that your work or other commitments take precedence over their wellbeing.
If possible, try and avoid framing your child's time at a daycare or with caregivers as something you rely on for your convenience.
Instead, emphasise that their experiences matter deeply to you.
Make it clear that their safety, happiness, and emotional wellbeing are always your priority and ask open ended questions like, “How was your day?” or “Did anything make you feel upset or uneasy?”
Note to self: As parents, our reactions are just as important.
If your child confides in you, remain calm and supportive, even if the topic is upsetting.
Your response sets the tone for whether they’ll come to you again in the future.Trust and Verify
It’s easy to assume that institutions like hospital, clinics, schools, daycare centres, or extracurricular clubs have rigorous systems in place to vet employees.
While most do, it’s still important to do your own due diligence.- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask about background checks, training programmes, and how the organisation handles complaints.
- Stay Involved: Be present in your child’s life. Attend school events, get to know their teachers, and establish relationships with other parents.
- Monitor Changes: If your child’s behaviour shifts dramatically - becoming withdrawn, anxious, or fearful, it could be a sign that something’s wrong.
Protecting Their Childhood without Smothering It
The balance between vigilance and trust is a delicate one.
We want our children to experience the world, build relationships, and grow into confident adults.
But we also have a responsibility to safeguard their innocence.
Empowering them with the knowledge to recognise inappropriate behaviour is key.
Last but not least, as a parent myself, I know how easy it is to get swept up in worry.
But our role isn’t to shield them from every potential danger.
It’s to prepare them to navigate the world safely and confidently.
By staying informed and proactive, we can create a safer environment for our little ones to thrive.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!
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When Is the Right Time for Your Child’s First Smartphone?
Eisya Ereena
December 28, 2024
5 min
A couple of weeks ago, my five-year-old came home from a movie night with his friends, his face lit up with excitement and curiosity.
'Mummy', he began, scrunching up his nose and frowning trying to put his words and thoughts together,
'Did you know my school friend has a phone? He is a little bit younger than me, so when will I get one?'
Now, as a parent of two, one about to turn six and the other just two, this isn’t the first time I’ve been confronted with questions about technology.
I mean, it’s 2024, and screens are pretty much everywhere.
But hearing it from my eldest made it feel suddenly real.
The prospect of him owning a phone sent me spiralling into a rabbit hole of parental dilemmas: Is six too young? What about emergencies? What if he’s left out because everyone else in his class has one?
It’s a lot, isn’t it?
In fact, a lot of conversations I've had with fellow parents recently have been about the right amount of exposure our children should have to technology and everything it entails.
So, since no stone will be left unturned in our journey through motherhood, let’s unpack this together, parent-to-parent.
And try to make sense of when and how to introduce our little ones to the world of smart devices.When Is the Right Age?
If you’re looking for a definitive answer, you’re out of luck.
There’s no one size fits all when it comes to parenting, let alone technology.
Even tech titans have wrestled with these questions.
Did you know Bill Gates didn’t allow his kids to have mobile phones until they turned 14?
He believed delaying their exposure to smart devices gave them time to focus on other important aspects of childhood.
Similarly, Steve Jobs was known for limiting his kids’ screen time.
And yet, the reality today is different.
According to a study by Common Sense Media, 53% of children in the United States own a smartphone by the time they’re 11, and over a third have one by age 12.
These numbers are expected to trend even younger in the coming years.
For younger children, tablets can be a good first step into the tech world.
They’re more controlled with limited functionality compared to smartphones, and can be used under strict supervision.
My almost six-year-old, for instance, has a tablet we use together to explore educational apps and storybooks - emphasis on together because, let’s face it, the temptation for children to swipe over to YouTube is real.
But here’s the kicker: readiness isn’t just about age.
It’s about maturity, responsibility, and how much your child understands about boundaries.
For example, does your child already grasp the concept of rules - like not eating too many sweets before dinner (okay, we’re still working on that one)?
If so, they might be ready for a trial run with technology.Smart Rules for Smart Devices
When we finally decide to hand over that shiny gadget, it’s not just about setting a passcode and hoping for the best.
Setting clear rules and boundaries is key.
For instance, when my eldest does eventually get his emergency phone (probably not before his next birthday, no matter how much he bargains), there’ll be some non-negotiables such as:- Screen-Free Zones: No phones at the dinner table or during bedtime. This maintains family bonding time and encourages better sleep habits.
- Time Limits: Whether it’s gaming, chatting, or watching Transformers, too much screen time can overwhelm little minds. Apps like Screen Time for Apple or Google Family Link for Android are great tools to monitor and set daily limits.
- Open Conversations: I’ve already started talking to my eldest about the potential problems like sharing personal information online in ways he can understand.
Benefits of Introducing Technology
Okay, now that I’ve played the police parent card, let’s flip the coin.
We know that technology isn’t the enemy and introducing it in a controlled way can actually benefit our kids.
In fact, with technology is how I am here reaching out to thousands of parents within the space of my own home watching over my boys.
First, there’s the obvious: communication.
A phone can provide peace of mind, especially when they start venturing out for extracurricular activities or playdates.
Knowing my son could call me if he feels uneasy? I would really appreciate that.
Then, there’s the educational aspect.
I’ve seen first-hand how interactive learning apps make my eldest light up when he figures out a tricky crossword problem or learns a fun fact about dinosaurs.
And let’s not forget digital literacy.
In today’s world, being tech-savvy is almost as important as learning to read or write.Peer Pressure
Remember when we were kids, and everyone just had to have the coolest pencil case or that one pair of shoes?
Well, it’s the same with gadgets now.
As much as we want to raise resilient, non-conforming little humans, the reality is that feeling left out can affect their confidence.
That’s why I’m leaning towards starting small.
A basic phone for emergencies feels like a good compromise for my son when he reaches that milestone.
That way, he’s not entirely out of the loop but we’re still keeping things age-appropriate.Finding Balance
As parents, we’re constantly being pulled in multiple directions.
We want to shield our kids from the world but also prepare them for it.
Introducing smart devices is just another balancing act.
We want our children to be resilient; to understand that a little pressure like figuring out a school project deadline or learning to share can help them grow.
But we also want them to feel happy, confident, and most importantly, secure.
While navigating through this topic of technology, I'm determined to find the sweet spot where technology becomes a tool for them to grow and explore the vast world around them.
A way to connect, learn and grow without losing sight of what matters most: real-world relationships, creativity, and family time.
So, will my soon-to-be six-year-old (as he likes to call himself) get a phone tomorrow? Probably not.
But when the time does come, we’ll step into this new chapter with open communication, clear boundaries, and a whole lot of learning along the way.
Because at the end of the day, parenting isn’t about getting it perfect.
It’s about growing, together - finding the balance between what works for each family dynamics and each family member.
What about you, my fellow mummies?
When will you introduce technology to your precious children?
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!
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