Navigating the Shadow Pandemic: Supporting COVID Babies as They Start School

The COVID-19 pandemic has left an unforgettable mark on nearly every aspect of our lives. Among the less visible but equally significant impacts is the shadow pandemic affecting babies born during the crisis. These "COVID babies," born during the pandemic, face unique challenges that have sparked a growing conversation about their mental, emotional, and developmental well-being.

The term "shadow pandemic" refers to the indirect effects of COVID-19, including mental health struggles, disruptions in normal development, and the strain on families. For babies born between 2020 and 2022, this shadow has cast a significant impact on their early years.

COVID babies, born during the start of the pandemic (2020) are starting school this September.  The transition to school is a very important milestone, and for these children, it comes with additional layers of complexity due to the pandemic’s lasting impact on their early years.

Below are some of the complexities that are being seen and some helpful strategies to support these little ones to be successful on their new school journey.

1. Social Skills and Classroom Adaptation

One of the most notable challenges for COVID babies entering school is the potential delay in social skills. Many of these children have had limited opportunities for peer interaction and group activities, which are essential for developing the social competencies needed in a school setting. Teachers and parents can help by providing extra support during this transition. Strategies like fostering positive peer interactions, encouraging group play, and implementing social skills training can help ease this adjustment.

2. Academic Readiness and Developmental Gaps

The disruption of early childhood education due to the pandemic has led to concerns about developmental gaps. For many COVID babies, the lack of access to early learning opportunities might impact their academic readiness. Schools can address this by incorporating flexible, supportive learning environments and individualized instruction to accommodate varied developmental levels. Early assessment and targeted support can also help identify and address any learning delays.

3. Parental Involvement and Support

Parental involvement remains crucial as children start school. For parents of COVID babies, staying actively engaged with their child’s education can make a significant difference. This includes participating in school activities, communicating regularly with teachers, and supporting homework and learning at home. Schools can facilitate this by offering workshops and resources to help parents navigate the educational landscape and support their children’s learning.

4. Emotional Well-being and Mental Health

The emotional and mental health of COVID babies as they enter school is another area of concern. The stress and uncertainty of the past few years might have impacted their emotional resilience. Schools should prioritize mental health support by providing access to counsellors, creating a supportive and inclusive classroom environment, and implementing programs that address emotional well-being. Encouraging open communication between parents and teachers can also help in addressing any emotional or behavioural issues early on.

5. Creating a Supportive School Environment

A supportive school environment is vital for the successful transition of COVID babies. Schools can foster this by: Implementing Transition Programs: Orientation sessions, buddy systems, and gradual entry programs can help children acclimate to the school setting more comfortably. Encouraging Teacher Training: Professional development for teachers on the impacts of the pandemic on early childhood development can equip them with the tools to better support these students.Promoting Inclusivity: Creating an inclusive atmosphere where every child feels valued and understood helps in building confidence and easing anxiety.

6. Fostering Resilience and Adaptability

Despite the challenges, COVID babies are remarkably resilient. Their experiences during the pandemic have equipped them with unique coping skills and adaptability. Schools and parents can build on this resilience by encouraging a growth mindset, celebrating small successes, and fostering a positive outlook towards learning and social interaction.

If you are looking for further support or information, please reach out to your child’s school team. The school Special Education Resource Teacher (SERT) is a great resource for ideas and strategies to support your child in the classroom.

If you would like further support please book an intake session with Leah, she would be happy to discuss any of the strategies in more details with you.

Leah is one of our newest members of the team and is a wealth of knowledge on parenting and child development. Reach out to her if you related to this post.