After a period of uncertainty, schools have finally reopened with certain restrictions. But, with the COVID-19 threat still looming over our heads, the scope for outdoor activity for kids is going to be limited. This is going to be the case for a while. How much is this going to impact the emotional development of our children? During the circuit breaker period, they had little or no contact with people other than their family. This might have already left an impact on them. Will we be able to reverse those negative side effects? What should we be focusing on now? With Phase 2 around the corner, let’s remember that while we are able to go out and resume some sort of social activity, to always practice precaution and not let the past two months of hard work not go to waste.
The COVID-19 impact on kids
How have the pandemic and associated circuit breaker measures affected our kids? Childhood is a time for exploration and interaction. Our young ones explore the world with their senses and imbibe things, picking up traits and life skills in the process. They are filled with immense reserves of energy.
But over the past couple of months, we have had to restrict this energy of our children indoors, and now when we can, we should let them start roaming free, within control of course.
But how were things before COVID?
Even without the circuit breaker measures, the amount of time that our children spent outdoors or socialising was considerably lesser compared to the older generations. What can be the reason for this?
Picture a group of kids about 30 years back. What are the images that come to your mind? We think about children running around in the open, playing and being physically present with each other.
But , how do we picturise the kids of the current age? Today, our kids spend more time glued to their gadgets. This has reduced their interaction with peers and can significantly impact their social skills.
Need for going out and socialising
But why do our kids need to socialise? The famous Greek philosopher Aristotle said that man is a social animal. Without the right social skills, we will not be able to achieve our true potential in life. Lacking social skills is a significant handicap that can torment our kids lifelong. Going out and interacting with others of the same age enhances their communication skills, teaches them teamwork, helps them learn to share and nurtures good friendships.
Innovative ways to incentivise socialising
But how do we get our kids out? Initially, many kids might not buy into the idea of going out and socialising. We might need to incentivise this, and parents need to be innovative here.
Currently, the scope for outdoor activity is minimal. But that doesn’t mean that you should put socialising on the backburner. You can utilise video calling apps for setting up group call sessions for your kids with their friends and peers.
For more normal times, without pandemic threats, as the situation eases, parents can do much more. Introducing your kids to team sports can be a good method. This would require that your kids work with others of the same age. You could also sign them up for some class or club they are interested in. This again would increase their contact with others and help them build social capital.
Countering gadget obsession
Countering unhealthy gadget usage brings in tremendous benefits to your child’s development. We need to limit screen time. Now, the current situation requires that our kids spend a certain amount of time with their gadgets for their educational needs. Restrictions should be imposed on gadget usage for other purposes. What would be the benefit? It will make sure that your kid looks for other things to do. This is where you can bring in more activities for socialising and get your kids excited about it.
In the years to come, social skills are going to be indispensable. We need to make sure that our kids do not lose out. Through subtle and innovative measures let’s try to ensure that our kids craft active and healthy social lives. Let’s gift them more active and vibrant childhoods!
How to help your child socialize? –
Exam Smart Tips
Exam Smart Tip #1 – How to Encourage Our Kids to Speak Better?
Exam Smart Tip #2 – How to avoid carelessness?
Exam Smart Tip #3 – Establishing Routines!
Exam Smart Tip #4 – Let’s Read Carefully!
Exam Smart Tip #5 – Beating the Exam Fever!
Exam Smart Tip #6 – How to Eat Right for the Exams?
Exam Smart Tip #7 – How to Avoid a Meltdown?
Exam Smart Tip #8 – Taking Stress out of Tests
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