Since the COVID-19 epidemic began, there has been an abundance of uncertainty and upheaval. Even for adults, change and uncertainty can be stressful, but for children, it is even more so. As a result of the sudden closure of many schools across the United States, many children and working parents were forced to switch to hybrid or remote learning, or perhaps lose their jobs. Because of the restrictions on their participation in extracurricular and community activities imposed by stay-at-home parents, many children suffered social isolation.

The loss of school-based supports and services for children’s academic, physical, social, and psychological well-being occurred as they transitioned to distant learning. For children with disabilities, those living in poverty, and those in under-resourced communities, the impact of these losses has been dramatically magnified.

Many youngsters have been scared and worried by the COVID-19 outbreak. Stress and trauma can lead to anxiety, depression, behavioral issues and dangerous conduct if they are not acknowledged and dealt with. Prior to COVID, children who had a major mental health problem faced a worsening of their symptoms, as well as an increase in the number of children who had mental health issues for the first time.

Suicide attempts and suicides have increased as a result of COVID’s impact on mental health. Prior to COVID, suicide was already a major public health issue in the United States; it is the third greatest cause of death for youth ages 10 to 14, and the second leading cause of death for those aged 15 to 24. Suicidal thoughts and actions among adolescents have spiked with the introduction of COVID.

With the disruption of everyday patterns, families were driven to devise new routines of their own. There was a shift away from face-to-face interaction and toward a more virtual world. After over a year and a half of adapting to the new normal, families are now readjusting to their old routines again. Returning to school and all that comes with it has taken some time for the children. No one should be surprised to learn that COVID has had a negative impact on caregivers’ mental health or that children’s well-being has been negatively impacted as a result.

Children’s mental health is a well-understood topic. When the world is in flux, these factors become even more crucial. Children need unconditional love from their caregivers, as well as encouragement, guidance, and proper discipline. They must be able to live in a safe and secure environment. Children learn a lot from the adults in their lives, including their parents and teachers. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and coping with stress and anxiety is essential. Two more critical aspects are open communication and understanding of behavioral shifts.

Educators and caregivers alike must work together to ensure that each kid receives the greatest possible care and education. Sharing information between caregivers and parents is critical to the health and well-being of the child.

Allowing youngsters to voice their opinions and concerns is essential. Aside from their own unique experiences, youngsters are hearing stories about the pandemic’s impact on others, including individuals getting sick, losing their jobs, and enduring long-term impacts. Children’s voices should be listened to and their concerns taken seriously. Your complete attention to youngsters will ensure that the child is heard.

Allow youngsters to ask questions about COVID and allow them to tell you what they’ve heard on the news or from other people. Respond truthfully, but in a manner that is acceptable for their age. You may not always be able to give an answer to a child’s inquiry. It’s quite acceptable to admit when you don’t know something. However, comforting your loved ones about the things you can control and will do to safeguard them is crucial. Keep your promises, and never make a promise you can’t keep.