Parenting Gen Beta? Here’s how smart tech can help

Raising Gen Beta: Dr Justin Coulson on parenting in the age of smart tech.

As the first true digital natives, Gen Beta – those born between 2025 and 2039 – will grow up in a world vastly different from any before.

Unlike previous generations who adapted to technology, Gen Beta will emerge in an era where AI, automation and smart technology are seamlessly embedded into everyday life. Their childhoods will be shaped by hyper-personalised learning, intelligent companions and a level of connectivity we can only begin to imagine.

For Gen Beta, smart technology won’t just be an addition to daily life – it will be the foundation.

Tech-native kids, tech-savvy parents

So what does this mean for the way they’re raised by Gen MZ (Millennial and Gen Z) parents and carers?

Many of us are already seeing our homes increasingly powered by AI-driven automation – from voice assistants to robot vacuums, smart fridges, washing machines and connected home ecosystems that anticipate needs and streamline everyday tasks.

Samsung’s latest research reveals that 80% of Gen MZ carers are already leaning into smart technology to “care smarter” and enhance their daily lives. Over a third say this tech helps them feel more assured (38%), secure (37%) and connected (36%).

And it’s not just about convenience. More than half (53%) of Gen MZ parents use TVs, phones or tablets as tools to entertain or educate their children – highlighting a growing trust in tech as a parenting partner.

Parenting Gen Beta? Here’s how smart tech can help

1. Supporting consistent routines

Routine offers predictability, which can reduce stress, improve emotional regulation and foster a sense of safety -especially for kids, elderly family members, and even pets and plants. But for busy caregivers, keeping on top of daily schedules can be draining.

Enter smart tech. With tools like Samsung’s SmartThings app, carers can automate everyday tasks – from turning on lights and setting the air-con, to monitoring baby monitors or cameras – all from one hub. It’s a hands-off way to maintain consistency, giving you more time and energy for what matters.

2. Staying connected from anywhere

Whether it’s keeping tabs on a sleeping baby or checking in on grandparents across town, the ability to stay virtually connected offers peace of mind and emotional closeness.

SmartThings makes it easy to monitor and manage devices remotely – meaning loved ones feel supported, and you feel reassured, even when you’re apart.

3. Encouraging independence with confidence

Caregiving also means empowering your loved ones. For older kids, teens and ageing relatives, small acts of independence can build self-confidence – while lightening the mental load for carers.

With SmartThings routines, you can program daily activities triggered by a voice command or tap. For example, a ‘Nighttime’ routine could dim the lights, cool the room, and signal to the whole household that it’s time to wind down – even letting older siblings take the lead with bedtime rituals.

4. Co-learning in a digital age

Raising Gen Beta will call for a mindset shift: from gatekeeping to guided exploration.

Rather than shielding kids from smart tech, it’s about helping them use it critically, creatively and responsibly. That means learning alongside them – talking about AI, ethics, privacy and using tools in ways that support curiosity and real-world problem-solving.

By embracing co-learning, families can create healthy, balanced tech habits that empower kids to become thoughtful digital citizens.

Empowered parenting in an AI-powered world

Gen Beta will be the most technologically integrated generation in history – and it’s up to us to help them thrive in that environment.

By embracing the benefits of smart tech while leading with human values, we can raise kids who are connected, confident and capable of navigating the digital world with independence and heart.