“Born 1982-2001, the Millennial Generation first arrived when ‘Babies on Board’ signs appeared. As abortion and divorce rates ebbed, the popular culture began stigmatizing hands-off parental styles and recasting babies as special. Child abuse and child safety became hot topics, while books teaching virtues and values became best-sellers. Politicians defined adult issues (from tax cuts to deficits) in terms of their effects on children. Hollywood replaced cinematic child devils with child angels, and cable TV and the internet cordoned off ‘child-friendly’ havens. While educators speak of ‘standards’ and ‘cooperative learning,’ school uniforms are surging in popularity. With adults viewing children more positively, U.S. test scores are faring better in international comparisons.”

William Strauss and Neil Howe, http://www.fourthturning.com/html/boom_generation.html