Guest columnist Timothy Hilk is president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Cleveland. Guest columnist Ana Thomas is vice president of youth development of the YMCA of Greater Cleveland.
The start of every school year is challenging for the parents and guardians of school-age children. With COVID-19, this year is arguably the most challenging in a lifetime.
Schools needed to quickly recraft the academic year to accommodate for COVID, with their preparations impacted at any given time by their county’s color coding in the Ohio Public Health Advisory Alert System.
Another complication was the political environment surrounding the coronavirus that brought out strong opinions on whether children should return to school and, if so, what level of prevention was reasonable.
Weeks later, we have seen some settling as new routines have emerged. Still, a question lingers: What is the impact of isolation and social distancing on our children?
Psychology Today found that “the isolation that comes with prolonged social distancing is a heavy burden for children. It can even strain existing friendships. Interactions that used to be easy and fun now feel forced and awkward.”
While all children are impacted on some level, it can be especially challenging for school-age children.
Developmental psychologist Amy Learmonth stated in a Healthline article: “The kids who are likely to suffer the most are in late childhood and adolescence. Young children are learning the basics of being social beings, and their parents and siblings can provide most of the input they need, while older children and adolescents are learning to navigate complex social groups of peers.”
The impacts can linger long after this pandemic passes. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Loneliness in children and adolescents is also worrisome because it can have long-term effects. Research shows that loneliness in kids, especially over extended periods, is linked with mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety in the following years.”
It seems that all facets of children’s lives have been impacted to some degree by COVID-19. Consider that, pre-quarantine, we at the YMCA of Greater Cleveland would welcome thousands of children in our camps, childcare centers and youth programs, like swim lessons. Today, we are offering those services, but to fewer participants due to health restrictions and strict social distancing measures.
Parents and guardians need to be sure their children are getting extra attention. For those in youth programs, make sure the providers are doing more than babysitting.
Advanced providers like the Y know that to offset the issues of loneliness driven by isolation and social distancing, childcare programs must holistically nurture child development. They must not only provide a safe place, they must also focus on developing foundational skills, healthy, trusting relationships and social-emotional learning.
Family time is a good offset to isolation and loneliness. Many organizations, including the Y, offer virtual family activities. We also have family programing inside our branches.
The fight against isolation and loneliness is waged at home, at school and in youth development programs. The Y is here to help you and your children get through this stronger, safer and together.
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