People of all ages are affected by the coronavirus, from children telelearning to seniors being moved out of nursing homes to prevent the spread. Even though children seem to be less likely to contract the virus, they are still experiencing emotional trauma from the isolation associated with state lockdowns. The coronavirus has caused enormous disruption to children’s lives. The normalcy that most children have with their school routine, sports, extracurricular activities, etc. have all ceased to exist. 

This drastic change in schedule will be very confusing to kids and the age group believed to be most affected is middle school-aged children. Children a few years and under likely won’t comprehend the situation and will be stable as long as parents keep them entertained and active. 

Children With Special Needs

Many children are experiencing worry, fear and anxiety, especially those who have special needs. Special needs children such as children with autism spectrum disorder are reliant on strict schedules and programs. Services for children needing additional assistance with the school who may have learning disorders need teachers who can format the work in a way that is understandable to them. 

Schools across the country have closed indefinitely to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. A transition that can make it difficult for some students who require structure to achieve their educational goals. Parents can maintain communication with their child’s teachers to help with the transition from in-school learning to telelearning. 

Domestic Violence

For some children, being at home can put them at increased risk of, or increased exposure to domestic violence. In homes where domestic violence takes place, all this time at home can make them more likely to witness violence between parents or between parents or another family member. In the United States, it is estimated that “1 in 15 children are exposed to intimate partner violence each year, and 90% of these children are eyewitnesses to this violence.” 

Being Honest With Children

While parents may want to shield their children from all the death and despair on TV, it’s better they hear about the coronavirus from you instead of their phone. Children may become frustrated by being forced to stay home if they don’t or can’t fully understand the situation. Younger and older children can react with anger, sadness or irritability. Depending on the child they might want extra attention from their parents or they might want to be alone. You can explain what is happening to children in a way that they understand but won’t feel panicked. Children can adapt to new situations and under the guidance and support of their parents or guardians will thrive. 

Parents or caregivers should also acknowledge to their children that they are emotionally struggling to. Children can relate more to the stress and anxiety of the situation if they know their parents can get through it too. Parents can be role models for how to handle fear and worry in a healthy way, like avoiding the news and listening to music. 

Psychological Services

For children and adults who are struggling to manage their anxiety and stress during this time, there are telehealth services. Many psychologists are doing video chats or phone calls with people who need extra support because of the pandemic. For children, a child psychologist could help them handle the stress of their lives being uprooted. 

Resource

https://ncadv.org/statistics