In today’s digital age, young people are building dynamic online worlds where they socialise, express themselves, and shape their identities. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and gaming environments such as Roblox and Minecraft have become hubs of creativity and connection for tweens. These digital spaces are not just tools for entertainment; they are virtual playgrounds where young people establish their own communities, social constructs, and cultural norms.
Unlike earlier generations that viewed media personalities as distant celebrities, today’s tweens see influencers as relatable “friends.” These online figures provide a sense of connection, but they often lack training in youth well-being. Instead, their content is shaped by personal experience or driven by algorithms designed to generate revenue, not support healthy development.
What’s remarkable is how young people have adopted these spaces to create their own culture—complete with rules, codes of conduct, and shared traditions. From commenting on videos to engaging in collaborative gaming, these virtual interactions often mirror real-world socialisation, much like a “digital playdate.”
However, this culture comes with challenges. The internet was not built with young people’s well-being in mind; its design is inherently monetised. Content is created to attract views and generate income, which can expose tweens to content that prioritises profitability over their mental health and development.
The solution is not to block young people from the digital landscape but to engage with them in these spaces. By understanding their culture and modelling healthy digital expression, adults can guide tweens to navigate this landscape safely and positively. Together, we can ensure their online world becomes a space for creativity, connection, and growth.
Let’s make the digital landscape a place where youth can thrive.
