A changing childhood
Insights|July 3, 2026
Childhood is evolving. At House of Many Voices in Almedalen, discussions explored how shifts in lifestyle, digital exposure and mental well-being are reshaping children’s experiences and challenging existing support systems.
The conditions shaping childhood today differ fundamentally from those of previous generations. One visible shift is the decline in physical activity. Daily movement has decreased, while sedentary behavior has increased.
Carolina Klüft, Operations Manager at Generation Pep.“Four out of five children do not reach recommended levels of physical activity”
At the same time, mental health challenges are becoming more prominent, particularly among adolescents. Presenting the report Children’s Health – Our Future, Karsten Dalgaard, Senior Partner at McKinsey Sweden, noted that “Seven out of ten young women experience worry or anxiety.” These trends are not isolated. They are connected to broader societal changes, including increased pressure at school, shifting expectations and uncertainty about the future. Digital environments add another layer. They offer access, connection, and information, but also introduce new dynamics that are often not fully understood by adults.
“There is a gap between how young people experience their digital lives and how adults understand them,” said Helene Öberg, Secretary General at Prinsparets Stiftelse, during the session “How can we build a safe online environment for young people – without silencing their voices?”.
These changes highlight the need for continuous adaptation. Systems designed for previous conditions may no longer be sufficient. Instead, supporting children today requires a deeper understanding of how their physical, social and digital environments are evolving.
Read more:
Societal challenges in focus at House of Many Voices in Almedalen 2026
Every child’s right to a strong start
When systems shape outcomes
Prevention instead of reaction
The role of collaboration and solutions on the ground