Updated January 15, 2025 – With over eight billion people inhabiting the planet and more than 65 percent having internet access, the reach of eCommerce online shopping has expanded to unprecedented levels. In the U.S., kids aged 3 to 18 are increasingly becoming active participants in this digital marketplace. According to recent studies, 97 percent of children now have internet access at home, and most kids over the age of seven own smartphones. This widespread connectivity is reshaping how young consumers interact with online stores, creating new opportunities for ecommerce businesses.
As kids gain greater influence over household spending, their preferences and shopping habits demand attention. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and multiplayer gaming have become hotbeds of activity, with kids driving trends and even acting as influencers themselves. It’s time for businesses to think beyond adult consumers and start catering to this digitally native generation.
Ecommerce for Kids
The rise of ecommerce for kids highlights the growing trend of young consumers engaging in online shopping. Kids influence household spending and prefer platforms like TikTok and Instagram for their shopping needs. Businesses should consider tailoring their marketing strategies to appeal to these young digital natives.
How Old Do You Have To Be To Order Online?
It isn’t easy to pinpoint how many ecommerce shoppers are under 18. The number of businesses specializing in kids’ attire and toys continues to grow. On social media, savvy kids have achieved the status of social media influencer. They may partner with brands to feature their products on their channels. The ways in which brands can safely interact with kid consumers are growing. It’s time your ecommerce business start thinking about their youngest consumers.
Who are these shoppers, anyway?
Anyone born after 1980 in the U.S. is generally considered digital natives. They haven’t known a world without the internet and find it’s the best way to connect and collaborate with others quickly. Kids are active on social media, more so than adults. Kids are drawn to platforms with videos such as TikTok, Snapchat, and multiplayer gaming. They shun traditional social media like Facebook and Pinterest. They are also more likely to explorer new platforms.
When it comes to online shopping, kids are on top of it. All they need is a credit card and an email address, then agree to the terms and conditions on an online merchant’s website, and they’re off shopping. These young consumers are looking for clothing, toys, games, books, and digital content to consume. More than 93 percent of parents say that their child influences household spending.
With the advent of specialty credit cards like Apple’s Family Card, parents can easily control their children’s spending. This further enhances a child’s ability to make purchasing decisions on their own.
What influences kids’ shopping habits?
Social media and influencer marketing significantly impact young online shoppers and are major factors for this growing generation. Peers represent the most considerable influence on kids, with 30 percent reporting that their friends are the most influential when deciding what they like to buy. Social media and influencers come in a close second at 25 percent effect on buying decisions. Family members make up another 21 percent of the impact. And 13 percent of kids say that nothing or no one influences their purchasing decisions. Traditional advertising has less of an effect on kids than ever before.
Online shopping is easy and convenient with the emergence of smartphones. Quick fulfillment has played a role in creating near-instant gratification with online shopping.
What all these numbers mean is that kids are shopping online. More than likely, they are shopping your store, and you may not know it. Now, your task as an online retailer is to keep up with their changing preferences – and to keep their interest as they grow into shopping-savvy adults!
What is Popular With Kids Right Now?
Understanding what kids are excited about today can help businesses align their offerings with current trends. Here’s a snapshot of what’s trending with young consumers in 2025:
- Tech Gadgets and Accessories
Kids are increasingly tech-savvy, and products like wireless earbuds, gaming headsets, and phone accessories are top sellers. Personalized tech items, such as custom phone cases or smartwatch bands, also appeal to this audience. - Sustainable Products
Gen Alpha and younger Gen Z are conscious shoppers. Eco-friendly toys, clothing made from recycled materials, and reusable water bottles resonate strongly with their values. - Interactive Toys and Games
Augmented reality (AR) toys, coding kits, and collaborative board games are in demand. These items blend entertainment with education, appealing to kids and parents alike. - Pop Culture Merchandise
Merchandise tied to popular franchises—like movies, TV shows, and video games—continues to dominate. From apparel featuring beloved characters to collectible items, pop culture reigns supreme. - DIY and Creative Kits
Craft kits, slime-making sets, and digital art tools are popular with kids looking to express their creativity. These products cater to a growing interest in DIY culture.
