Due to Covid restrictions, there is generally a lot of isolation in the community. And probably children could be the ones who are most affected. I recently spoke to a friend who is a mother of a toddler. She expressed fear about the development of her child in the past year. And this is a fair thing to worry about.
Our kids have been suddenly pushed into an online world where online birthdays, playdates, lessons, and games are keeping them occupied throughout the day. Well, this could harm a child’s social, physical and mental development. (Read further about this in The Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry )
So, what can we do to at least make the situation better if not resolve it? Here are three things we as parents can do, to help kids have a well-rounded balanced growth during the pandemic.
Make ‘reduced screen time’ the new normal
Speak to children about the use of devices and the pros and cons that follow. Make sure that there is a limit to the usage of devices (not just for kids alone). While using devices ensure that kids have some amount of interactivity with their friends/ family/ relatives. This offers a feeling of mental security.
Food, clothing, walks and then wi-fi
‘Food, clothing and shelter’ is being fast replaced by ‘food, clothing and wi-fi’ (thanks to covid). Our kids might just live out of pods that offer the best internet in the future. So, it is important that we drill the importance of ‘outdoors’ into their heads now! Take a walk together. If you have a backyard, set ‘fresh air time’ and potter around or do some gardening with the kids. It’s a clean break from technology and helps you focus on your well-being.
Make time for playtime daily
Play with your child – this strengthens kids emotionally. When you set aside time to play with them, they know that this is serious and more important than a video game. It makes you bond, laugh and works wonders for the well-being of the whole family. (Read further: How play can help during isolation)