How COVID-19 Mandates Affect the Health of our Children

Nicolas Bonilla Giraldo 

The pandemic completely changed our lives in one way or another. If you are like me, the challenges of social distancing had (and still have) drastic changes in our daily routines. Even though it is normal to experience these effects, disadvantaged children’s health is especially affected by these mandates. These restrictions create challenges in children who are in an essential period of development. As children spend more time at home, their mental health, lifestyle behaviours and wellbeing can suffer unhealthy changes.

 

But what are children experiencing during lockdown?

With the lockdown set in place, students from all over were introduced to online learning. Although experiences vary widely, I can tell you that no one was more excited than my younger brother. He is not your morning person at all. I remember him saying “this is heaven” as he joined his Zoom class with a blanket over his shoulders! However, this was just the beginning of what was to come. 

 

During the first lockdown, research collected in four different Canadian provinces tells us how children experienced changes in their lifestyle behaviours, wellbeing, and mental health. Even though most children showed to have positive views towards a healthy lifestyle during this time, 2/3 decreased in physical activity. They actually engaged more in sedentary behaviour which are activities that require minimal effort such as playing video games and using the cellphone. It is interesting how technology became both the primary source of entertainment and education for children. But, does this influence their motivation or how they are feeling?

Take a look back at your childhood. Do you remember the thrill of making new friends and wanting to be at school all day to have fun with them? Going out at lunch and playing tag or hopscotch. You may remember how loud the classes were when everyone tried to participate or how you wanted to sit down beside your best friend. Well, let me ask you this. How do you think children’s mental health and wellbeing are when they do not get these experiences in person?

The mandates affected us differently and children are not the exception. Some are affected more than others. Some may have more resources to keep themselves entertained or have healthier lifestyles enforced by parents. Although most children perceived their mental health to be better, a small and important portion of children do experience feeling lonely and bored more. Attending schools could have important developmental resources that can be key for the health of children who may not have the same resources. Thus, attending to school could serve as a key source for some children who may lack the appropriate resources at home to maintain a healthy physical and mental development.

 

So, what can we do? 

Don’t worry, there is still light at the end of the tunnel. The positive attitudes of children during these periods of time might be actually the solution we are looking for. Research found that:

·      Children who view physical activity and eating healthy positively are more likely to have a healthy lifestyle. 

·      Positive attitudes are linked to having a better mental health and wellbeing during the lockdowns. 

·      Parents can take advantage of behaviours like gaming and use it to increase social interaction and physical activity. 

·      Parents can use lockdowns to develop healthier eating habits that are beneficial for children. 

                                                    

This is our new reality. Even if we have not been in a lockdown for over a year, we never know when we may go back. It’s important to be prepared. A healthy development is needed for children we can help them achieve this during these harsh times. Avoiding unhealthy lifestyles is ideal because they can create psychological issues later in life. We can’t control lockdowns, but we can make them better for our children. Make their future better, healthier.