Over time, the extended vacation of the lockdown might induce a way of hysteria and insecurity in children – more so due to the increased screen time and constant exposure to negative news on social media.
- Increased screen time puts strain on the eyesight of children.
- Restrict children’s exposure to negative news.
- Make a routine for children that keeps them busy through exercising and learning new skills
It’s 7 am, the youngsters are becoming dressed for college, their tiffin is being packed and bags ready all awaiting for the varsity bus to fetch them for a day of learning, play and fun with friends.
It has been over a year since our old normal took a backseat and that we were all forced to be homebound. Children, who once wont to anticipate weekends, festivals and vacations to urge some leisure reception and with friends and cousins, now spend their time in front of laptops and phones to attend online classes all day long. However, what started as a fun vacation – an excuse to remain far away from school – now looks like an extended punishment. No more playdates, no more annual functions and no more physical classes – the lives of our youngsters have taken an unimaginable twist and tiny can we realise how this could be impacting their mental health.
While we may fail to understand what children might be browsing, we connected with an expert for understanding the basis explanation for concern, its impact and possible solutions. Dr Kersi Chavda, Consultant, Psychiatry at PD Hinduja Hospital and Medical Research Centre, Khar, spoke to us about pandemic-induced anxiety in children.
“Children have rejoiced with the very fact that the faculties are closed and examinations are cancelled. However, over time, this extended vacation might induce a way of hysteria and insecurity within the – more so due to the increased screen time and constant exposure to social media. Furthermore, with negative news of coronavirus cases increasing again, a way of fear is ignited in children, who now, within the end of the day, may fear the thought of stepping altogether. The same can happen with adults too,” Dr Chavda explained.
"With this, it becomes imperative for the oldsters to speak to their kids. A parent’s reaction to stressful situations also can make a difference during this case. Remember, that the kid reaction depends on what he or she sees. If children see the important people around them reacting badly and appearing stressed, they're going to react similarly. So the onus is on adults to seem as calm as possible,” he added.
Besides conversation, here are some to assist parents to save their children from falling prey to future anxiety.
1) Virtual meets with friends: In-person play dates are no longer deemed safe for children. However, parents can organize virtual meet dates for youngsters to assist them to stay connected with friends not only through texting or social media but via direct conversation.
2) Restrict news time: Exposure to the news at a time when the world is dealing with the risk of a third wave of coronavirus may not help your child’s case. It can increase the risk of fear and anxiety, and despite being vaccinated, can make them fear the idea of going back to school when it opens. Therefore, it's recommended to limit news hours for them.
3) Make a routine for your kids: Parents need to draw a routine for their children that include more than just study time. This should include a while for exercising, mindfulness, helping with household chores and developing a replacement skill.
4) Speak to them: The pandemic has forced us all to be homebound. Therefore, it's advisable to form the foremost of this chance to reconnect together with your children, ask them regularly, understand how they feel about things and help them be more vocal about their preferences and choices in life.
SOURCE
https://www.timesnownews.com/health/article/school-closure-isolation-and-more-is-the-pandemic-making-kids-more-prone-to-depression/799033