Influencers are Getting Younger by the Day

California; Hayward — There have always been captivating personalities on social media who are very young. Some are known for their artistic talents or their advocacy for social change. Today, platforms like TikTok are the home for Gen Alpha lifestyle content creators.

Koti and Haven Garza, both 7, may only have half a mouthful of baby teeth and struggle to pronounce the term "influencer," yet they boast a substantial following of 4.8 million on TikTok, where they share skincare routines and fashion checks. The twins, part of Gen Alpha (born between 2010 and 2024), exemplify a rising trend of child influencers. The "Garza Crew" gained viral fame in 2020, and their parent-run accounts continue to attract attention, according to NBC News.

Zigazoo, a social media network for kids launched in 2020, has become a hub for over 700 "kid talent" influencers, creating challenges and content. While the Garzas aren't part of Zigazoo's roster, the app features both recruited child stars and those who achieved fame by posting on the platform. Zigazoo emphasizes content moderation, with human moderators approving all posts, boasting over eight million users, and collaborating with brands like iHeartMedia and the NBA.

However, the professionalization of child influencers has raised concerns. Some argue that for many families, this isn't just a hobby but a primary or sole source of income for the children. Gen Z activist Chris McCarty has collaborated on legislation to safeguard child influencers, with Illinois becoming the first state to enact such protections, ensuring children receive a portion of earnings from monetized content. Similar bills are under consideration in other states.

Mark McCrindle, the demographer who coined the term "Gen Alpha," notes that this generation differs from Gen Z as they naturally embody influencer culture without actively trying. Critics express worry over the perceived maturity of Gen Alpha influencers, but parents like Adrea Garza defend their choices, emphasizing their efforts to protect their children's privacy and earnings.

Garza welcomes legislation aimed at safeguarding child content creators, sharing her allocation system for their income. She asserts that, as parents, they prioritize their children's happiness, and if the kids choose not to be on social media one day, that decision will be respected.

Noumaan Faiz, (he/him) is a journalist and entertainer from Hayward, CA who covers culture and entertainment.

Edited by Nykeya Woods