When the Journal of Children & Media launched, the digital society was just beginning. Gameboys topped holiday wish lists and TheFacebook was a novelty. I was in my early days of graduate school, trying to grasp this changing world. So much has changed since then, including how and what we study. JOCAM scholars, in particular, have redefined the study of youth and media, adapting to a world of constant connectivity. Theoretical shifts have moved us beyond one-size-fits-all approaches, while methodological innovations have deepened our understanding of youth’s digital experiences.
As we celebrate JOCAM’s 18th birthday, I had the opportunity to share my thoughts in this open access commentary. As you will see when you read it, I see many challenges on our horizon. Many youth lack the digital competence needed to thrive, and their rights to participation, protection, and provision in the digital age remain under-addressed. In the commentary, I urge scholars at all stages of their career to push us forward with proactive, high-risk research that prioritizes engagement with media creators and public policy makers, innovation, advocacy, and youth-centered solutions. By doing so, we can help ensure the next generation thrives in the digital world—and, at JOCAM’s next milestone birthday, celebrate the impact we have made together.