Being trapped in the house for over two years has made us all wonder what might be the effect of this isolation on children. Effects of isolation during COVID-19 can not just be seen in adults but also in children. Read this blog to take a look at how social isolation impacts children.
Effects of Social Isolation on a Child
1. Social Behaviour
Being social is a crucial part of child development. The lack of social ties can have many adverse effects during the growth of a child. Studies show that socially isolated children grow up to have less academic success. They are more likely to belong to a less-abled social and economic class and are likely to be mentally unhappy.
2. Human Stress Response
Lack of social ties is related to feelings of isolation. Isolation has been related to an increase in stress levels. The principal goal of the stress response system is to save the human body from outside danger. On being socially isolated, the body perceives the situation as a danger. So the brain releases stress hormones to defend the body from harm. But it has been shown that having an active stress response for a long time increases the risk of heart disease. High-stress levels also increase blood pressure and result in cognitive decline. It multiplies the risk of infectious illness and may even led to early death.
3. Brain Development
Lack of Social Interaction in Child Development
It is impossible to say how kids will recall this period of their lives as they get older. There is no precedence for any of us to draw from. Parents fail to assess the impact of isolation due to COVID on their children as they did not have similar experiences. But it is easy to predict that the negative effects will be different for children of different age groups.
1. Preschool
Preschool sets the base for social development because it is a child’s first contact with peers. Preschoolers who do not get the chance to set that base are at a disadvantage when it comes to learning social skills like peer relationships and problem-solving.
2. Elementary School
In elementary school, kids develop a sense of independence. Their social relationships grow more as they begin to understand the link between their acts and their effects. Children may raise their screen time to account for changes when the opportunity of going to school is removed. The loss of social interaction and a shift to the world of screens might impede the social growth of children.
3. Teens and Tweens
Children in the tween and adolescent years, on the other hand, may face the biggest impact of social isolation. They are grown enough to completely realise the implications of their actions because of which they need greater social connection. They will be more affected if they do not receive it. Children may suffer if they fail to attend social events like prom or sports. These are crucial components of establishing their sense of self. They may develop sadness and anxiety symptoms as a result of this. These issues, if not treated, can have a long-term impact on their ability to operate.
Things To Do With Kids During a Pandemic
India is anticipating another wave of COVID-19. Here is a list of things that you can do with your child during the pandemic:
- Do home gardening
- Plan a movie night
- Involve them in creatives
- Do a terrace or backyard camping
- Play board games
- Do a dance party
