Every generation has its quirks, its trends, and its lingo that make the older generation scratch their heads. But let’s face it: teenagers today move at lightning speed, leaving us—the well-meaning parents and adults—playing catch-up. One day, you’re the cool parent who knows about TikTok’s latest dance challenges, and the next, your attempt to use their slang earns you an epic eye roll.
Sound familiar?
As South Africa approaches Youth Day on 16 June, it’s the perfect time to celebrate not only the vibrant spirit of young people but also their ever-evolving world. From slang to social media to what’s considered fashionable, staying in sync with teens can feel like navigating a labyrinth. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
What’s Cool and What’s Uncool?
Let’s start with the basics: what’s currently trending in the world of teens?
Cool:
- Authenticity: Teens love raw, unfiltered content. Think BeReal over highly curated Instagram posts.
- Vintage everything: Thrifting and retro fashion are all the rage.
- Slang that’s short and punchy: Terms like “slaps” (amazing), “bet” (agreement), and “no cap” (no lie) dominate conversations.
- Eco-consciousness: Teens today are passionate about sustainability, from reusable water bottles to second-hand shopping.
Uncool:
- Overusing outdated slang: Sorry, but saying “yolo” or “bae” in 2025 is a sure way to make your teen cringe.
- Facebook: If you’re still inviting your kids to Facebook events, you might as well send them a carrier pigeon.
- Obvious attempts to “be cool“: Teens have an uncanny ability to sniff out inauthenticity.
Trends might seem frivolous, but they’re a key part of how young people express themselves and connect with peers. And understanding these trends can open the door to meaningful conversations.
How Can Parents Connect?
Staying connected with teenagers doesn’t mean you have to be fluent in their slang or know every viral meme. But showing genuine interest in their world goes a long way. Here are some tips:
- Stay Curious: Ask questions about their interests without judgment. Instead of saying, “What’s so great about this influencer?” try, “What do you like about them?”
- Be a Learner: Watch a show they’re obsessed with, download an app they’re using, or even attempt (and probably fail) a dance trend together. Shared experiences can be great conversation starters.
- Respect Individuality: Teens often follow trends, but they’re also exploring who they are. Celebrate their uniqueness rather than trying to fit them into a box.
- Focus on Values: Instead of fixating on trends, look for the values they reflect. For example, if your teen is passionate about climate change, find ways to support their efforts.
Preparing Teens for the Future
While the world of teens might seem like it’s all about slang and selfies, there’s more beneath the surface. This generation faces unique challenges and opportunities, from navigating the digital landscape to tackling global issues like climate change and social justice.
As parents, our role is to equip them with timeless skills that outlast fleeting trends:
- Critical Thinking: Encourage them to question information and think independently.
- Resilience: Teach them to bounce back from setbacks, even if it’s as simple as navigating the drama of a group chat.
- Empathy: Help them see the world through others’ eyes, fostering kindness and understanding.
Wrapping It Up
Bridging the generational gap isn’t about mastering every trend or perfectly using their slang. It’s about showing you care. When your teen rolls their eyes at your attempt to say, “That’s cap,” laugh with them. Because at the end of the day, the coolest thing you can do as a parent is to show up, listen, and love them unconditionally.
So, this Youth Day, let’s celebrate the incredible energy, creativity, and resilience of young people. They might make us feel uncool sometimes, but they also remind us to keep learning, laughing, and growing. And isn’t that what life’s all about?
