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The Rise of Empathy in Children's Language

In an era dominated by rapid technological advancements and social media influence, children have increasingly embraced words that reflect empathy and understanding. Oxford University Press (OUP) conducted a survey involving over 3,000 UK children aged six to 14, revealing "kindness" as the Children's Word of the Year for 2024. This choice underscores a profound shift towards compassion and awareness among the younger generation. The word "kindness" resonates deeply with today's youth, who recognize its significance in fostering mental health and emotional well-being. Many children associate kindness with addressing hidden struggles and promoting empathy. One participant noted, “It’s always important to be kind because a lot of people struggle with their mental health.” Another emphasized, “Kindness is important as you don’t know who is suffering.” These insights highlight the role of language in nurturing a more empathetic society.

Social Media's Impact on Youth Vocabulary

Social platforms like TikTok and Instagram play a pivotal role in shaping children's linguistic preferences. According to OUP, more than one million children under 14 in the UK use TikTok, influencing the rise of unique slang terms. Among these, "slay," "sigma," and "skibidi" emerged as top contenders in the annual poll. "Slay," chosen by more than one in four participants, denotes someone stylish or successful. It also conveys admiration and excellence. Meanwhile, "sigma" has gained traction, describing a highly independent and self-reliant individual, often linked to influential figures such as Andrew Tate. However, it's essential to distinguish this term from the Greek alphabet letter."Skibidi," a peculiar term popularized by the "Skibidi Toilet" YouTube series, adds an element of whimsy to children's conversations. Originating from Alexey Gerasimov's animated film, "skibidi" can mean bad, good, or weird, depending on context. Children creatively incorporate it into their dialogue, exemplifying the fluidity of modern slang. For instance, one child remarked, “My chances of winning are very skibidi,” while another said, “Oh, it’s totally skibidi mode.”

Artificial Intelligence: A Beacon of Optimism

Artificial intelligence (AI) secured a significant presence in the survey, with a quarter of respondents selecting it as their preferred term. Over half of these children associated AI with positive attributes like excitement and optimism. This enthusiasm reflects the growing interest in technology and its potential to shape the future.Children's fascination with AI extends beyond mere curiosity; it signifies a broader recognition of its transformative power. They see AI as a tool that can revolutionize various aspects of life, from education to healthcare. This forward-thinking perspective aligns with the broader societal trend of embracing innovation and progress.

Language as a Bridge to Unity

Andrea Quincey, director of early years and primary publishing at OUP, highlighted the importance of language in bridging societal divides. She observed that young people are acutely aware of issues that can fragment communities and understand the crucial role of language in fostering unity. The selection of "kindness" as the Children's Word of the Year exemplifies this awareness. It suggests that children recognize the value of empathy and tolerance in resolving conflicts and creating a harmonious environment. As Quincey noted, “Kindness is not only a solution to so many problems but is something everyone and anyone can do to make a difference.”This emphasis on kindness signals a collective desire for a more compassionate world, where language serves as a powerful tool for connection and understanding.