Grandparents and grandkids often have a special bond, but sometimes the younger generation’s habits can leave the older folks scratching their heads. Gen Z, born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, grew up in a world very different from their Baby Boomer grandparents. This gap can lead to some funny, confusing, and even frustrating moments when the two generations come together.
In this blog, I’ll share 15 ways Gen Z might unintentionally upset their Boomer grandparents.
Using strange slang
Gen Z has its own vocabulary that can sound like a foreign language to Boomer’s ears. Words like “sus,” “slay,” or “no cap” might leave grandparents feeling out of the loop. This slang barrier can make communication challenging and sometimes lead to funny misunderstandings. Boomers might feel left out or annoyed when they can’t follow their grandkids’ conversations.
Always on their phones
Gen Z is glued to their smartphones, which can frustrate Boomer grandparents. They might text during family dinners or scroll through social media while visiting. This constant phone use can make grandparents feel ignored or unimportant. Boomers often prefer face-to-face conversations and may not understand the appeal of always being connected online.
Skipping cable TV
Many Gen Z kids don’t watch traditional TV, preferring streaming services instead. This can confuse Boomer grandparents, who are used to cable and scheduled programming. When visiting, Gen Z might struggle to navigate old-school TV remotes or complain about commercials. This difference in entertainment habits can lead to misunderstandings and frustration on both sides.
Rejecting old-fashioned manners
Some traditional manners that Boomers value might seem outdated to Gen Z. This could include not writing thank-you notes, forgetting to RSVP, or being casual about punctuality. These differences in etiquette can make Boomer grandparents feel disrespected or unappreciated. Gen Z, on the other hand, might see these old-fashioned customs as unnecessary or too formal.
Unusual fashion choices
Gen Z’s fashion sense often baffles their Boomer grandparents. Ripped jeans, crop tops, or gender-neutral clothing might seem strange or inappropriate to older generations. Boomers might not understand why their grandkids want to buy “pre-worn” clothes or mix patterns boldly. These fashion disagreements can lead to awkward conversations and eye-rolling on both sides.
Job-hopping and gig work
Many Gen Z workers prefer flexible jobs or frequent career changes, which can worry their Boomer grandparents. Boomers often value job stability and long-term loyalty to one company. They might not understand why their grandkids take on gig work or switch jobs every few years. This difference in work attitudes can lead to tense discussions about future plans and financial security.
Plant-based diets
Gen Z is more likely to follow vegetarian, vegan, or flexitarian diets, which can upset meat-and-potatoes Boomer grandparents. Family dinners might become tricky when grandkids refuse traditional dishes or ask for plant-based alternatives. Boomers might feel their cooking is being rejected or worry about their grandkids’ nutrition. This food divide can make shared meals a source of stress instead of enjoyment.
Digital payments only
Many Gen Z kids rarely use cash, preferring apps and digital wallets for payments. This can frustrate Boomer grandparents who want to give cash gifts or don’t trust online banking. Gen Z might struggle to use checks or be confused by the idea of balancing a checkbook. These different approaches to money can lead to misunderstandings and concerns about financial responsibility.
Prioritizing mental health
Gen Z is more open about mental health issues and self-care, which can sometimes puzzle Boomer grandparents. Talking about therapy, taking mental health days, or prioritizing work-life balance might seem unnecessary to older generations. Boomers might not understand why their grandkids need so much “me time” or why they’re so open about their feelings. This generational difference can lead to concerns about toughness and resilience.
Tattoos and piercings
Body modifications are more common and accepted among Gen Z, often shocking their Boomer grandparents. Getting multiple tattoos or unusual piercings might seem rebellious or unprofessional to older generations. Boomers might worry about their grandkids’ future job prospects or health risks. These body art choices can lead to disappointed looks and lectures about long-term consequences.
Climate change activism
Many Gen Z kids are passionate about fighting climate change, which can annoy some Boomer grandparents. This might involve criticizing older generations for environmental damage or insisting on eco-friendly practices at home. Boomers might feel attacked or dismiss these concerns as overblown. The intensity of Gen Z’s environmental worries can lead to heated family debates and frustration on both sides.
LGBTQ+ acceptance
Gen Z is generally more accepting of diverse gender identities and sexual orientations. This openness can sometimes clash with more traditional Boomer views. Gen Z might use new pronouns or bring home partners that surprise their grandparents. These differences in acceptance can lead to uncomfortable conversations and potential family tension.
Rejecting traditional milestones
Many Gen Z kids aren’t rushing to hit traditional life milestones like marriage, homeownership, or having children. This can worry Boomer grandparents who followed a more conventional life path. Gen Z might prioritize travel, experiences, or personal growth instead of settling down early. These different life goals can lead to pressure from grandparents and frustration from grandkids who feel misunderstood.
Political correctness
Gen Z often emphasizes inclusive language and avoiding offensive terms, which can sometimes irritate Boomer grandparents. This might involve correcting grandparents’ word choices or objecting to certain jokes or comments. Boomers might feel like they’re walking on eggshells or accuse their grandkids of being too sensitive. These language differences can make casual conversations feel tense or lead to arguments about changing social norms.
Technology dependence
Gen Z’s reliance on technology for everyday tasks can baffle their Boomer grandparents. This might include using GPS for simple directions, looking up basic information online, or preferring texting to calling. Boomers might see this tech dependence as laziness or worry about lost life skills. These tech habits can lead to eye-rolling from grandparents and frustration from grandkids who see technology as a normal part of life.
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