Journal of Education & Social Policy

ISSN 2375-0782 (Print) 2375-0790 (Online) DOI: 10.30845/jesp

Meet Our New Generation Alpha Students: Implications for Preschool Classrooms
Bridget McCarthy, Kristina Scott, Laurie Dickstein-Fischer, Christina Cassano

Abstract
The aim of this conceptual paper is to examine the attributes of the youngest members of Generation Alpha, commonly referred to as pandemic babies, and outline strategies for establishing impactful preschool classrooms for them. Pandemic babies are newborns who were born during or immediately preceding the pandemic. As with any generational cohort, historical and societal factors influence social, emotional, behavioral, and academic behaviors. Current studies reveal that this generation may experience personal-social developmental delays. This article provides insights into how preschool educators can effectively address setting up their classrooms, establishing behavioral expectations, and promoting social-emotional skill development to proactively address potential trauma caused by the pandemic.

Full Text: PDF