If you’ve spent time with a tween lately, you’ve probably heard “6/7.” From Stanleys to Labubus, every month brings a fresh craze, leaving parents wondering: Why do kids latch on so fast?
To find out, we spoke with Dr. Sarah Love, a pediatric psychologist at Akron Children’s Hospital, who says trends are far more than fun. They’re tied to the very real work kids are doing as they figure out who they are.
A Brain Built for Belonging
Around age 10, kids’ brains shift dramatically. Love explains, “Childhood and adolescence is a major time of identity development and self-exploration. Starting around age 10, children’s brains undergo a major shift that increases their desire to seek out social rewards, including attention and approval from peers.”
Suddenly, what others think matters a lot. Trying the newest fad is a low-risk way to test out identity and join the social conversation.
Fitting In vs. Standing Out
Kids may tell us they like a trend because it’s “cool,” but underneath that is a deeper drive. As Love puts it, “Throughout our lifespan, but especially during adolescence, we hold a strong desire to belong. A lot of trend-following is related to a desire to have approval from peers and a strong desire to avoid standing out in a negative way.”
Trends give kids a shortcut into shared language and group identity — an instant way to feel included.
Peer Groups Are Bigger Than Ever
Years ago, trends spread from the popular kids in homeroom. Today, the ripple is global. “Peers and friends play a big role,” Love notes, “but with the large increase in social media use, there is now a major influence from a much broader group of children and teens across the nation and globally.”
One post, one influencer, one viral video is all it takes for a trend to feel universal.
Harmless…Until It Isn’t
While most trends are silly and harmless — like “6/7” —some veer into risky territory.
Love reminds parents that “children and teens’ brains are still developing, especially the part that involves rational thought, judgment and decision-making,” making them more likely to act impulsively.
That’s why staying curious and informed matters.
Listen Without Judgment
Love emphasizes parents can help by valuing connection over criticism.
“Parents can ask their kids and teens, what they think about the challenges or trends,” she says. “Provide a listening ear and work to avoid criticizing or diminishing their feelings.”
Talk Through Possible Risks
Encourage kids to imagine the worst-case outcomes of dangerous trends — a gentle way to strengthen their decision-making skills.
Strengthen real belonging.
“Encourage your child or teen to spend time with friends or family that increase their self-esteem and sense of belonging, even when they are not engaging in the latest trend,” Love says.
Set Healthy Boundaries Online
Monitoring apps, limiting screen time, and maintaining open communication helps keep kids safe while letting them participate in the fun.
