As the world's most lockdown-affected children prepare to start school, experts are raising concerns about potential behavioural challenges. These children, born during the COVID-19 pandemic, have experienced unique circumstances that may impact their transition to school life.
The upcoming school year will see a cohort of children, born in 2020, enter classrooms in Melbourne. While some may have received extra care and attention at home during lockdowns, the prolonged and strict restrictions have also created an isolating and uncertain environment.
Professor Kim Cornish, author of 'The Post-Pandemic Child', warns that these children might face difficulties with concentration, emotion regulation, and social interaction with their peers. She emphasizes the uniqueness of this generation, describing their early months as spent in a world of masks, limited social contact, and reduced opportunities for language and play development.
To help prepare these 'pandemic babies' for school, experts offer the following tips:
- Communicate with kindergarten teachers and the school about the transition process.
- Familiarize your child with the school environment through visits and social stories.
- Discuss school routines, wearing hats, and using lunchboxes.
- Practice social interaction skills and model games at home.
- Prepare for emotional responses, new behaviors, and tiredness.
- Ensure children have nutritious snacks and an early bedtime.
- Address separation anxiety by finding the best approach for your child's arrival at school.
- Consider school readiness programs for additional support.
- Engage in weekly team sports to promote social play and preparedness.
However, not everyone shares the same concerns. Lauren Donley, a mother from Yarraville, whose daughter Audrey was born during the pandemic, believes her child has not been negatively impacted. She acknowledges that some parents in her group have different experiences, especially for children with higher needs.
Speech and language development experts, like Associate Professor Sarah Verdon from Charles Sturt University, argue that it is too early to determine the pandemic's long-term effects on young children. Verdon highlights the importance of vigilance in schools, as the potential impacts on communication skills and social interaction are still emerging.
Grace Speight, assistant principal at Footscray City Primary School, has observed an increased need for preschool reports and early intervention support post-pandemic. However, new resources, such as positive behavior programs and mental health support, are aiding the transition process.
Cornish is developing a digital tool, 'Thrive Early', to assist teachers in identifying and addressing any concerning behaviors early on. She will further discuss her research at a public forum at Victoria University on November 13.
"I want our children to grow up fearless and resilient," Cornish says. "We must ensure they can navigate uncertainty and know they can overcome challenges."
As these children take their first steps into the world of education, the question remains: How will their unique experiences shape their future? The answers may lie in the support and understanding we provide during this critical transition period.
