Many states issued “stay at home” orders during the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose, of course, was to slow the spread of the virus by encouraging people to stay at home. The virus is still out there, and quarantine efforts can return if cases go up again. Children and teens are experiencing a variety of reactions to being quarantined.
WebMD mentioned 14-year-old “Grace” (not her real name) who said she noticed that she felt more relaxed than usual after one week in quarantine. “Grace” attributes this change to having her school-related stress reduced with online classes just two days a week, no tests or quizzes, and no worries about being late to class. She has a more open schedule now, and is getting more sleep than she got when schools were open.
Of course, “Grace” misses her friends, but she is able to connect with them through online sources. She’s also spending time playing online games with her grandfather. “Grace” now eats dinner every night with her family (something she might not have been able to do while juggling school, dance, flute, and band). Best of all, she gets fewer chronic migraine headaches now.
Not all children and teens are coping with quarantine as well. Some are stuck in situations were domestic violence is happening. Many parents have lost their jobs during the quarantine, and are struggling to provide enough food for their kids or to pay the bills. This kind of stress is felt by children and teens, who may be unable to get enough to eat.
There are some things parents can do to improve the mental health of their kids and teens. Avoid watching the news in front of children. Give your kids ways to express what they are feeling through art or journal writing. Find ways for them to virtually connect with their friends. Give them time for unstructured play.
Related Articles at Families.com:
Ways to Keep Kids Busy While Stuck at Home
How to Cope with Quarantine Fatigue
Social Distancing Prevents Spread of Coronavirus