By: Ioana Pal, PsyD, clinical psychologist, Stramski Children’s Developmental Center, MemorialCare Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach

Since the pandemic began, COVID-19 has rapidly changed the daily routines of many parents and children. With millions of households drawn indoors and online, families are learning how to manage schooling, childcare and social time. These challenges are the “new normal,” making it increasingly important for families to address growing concerns and difficult feelings.

During this period, families have been experiencing impatience and less structure as they navigate COVID-19 one day at a time. Reconfiguring everyone’s roles can be tough, which can contribute to anger or anxiety.

Although most children are resilient, it’s important to watch for signs that a child or teen is struggling with change or stress. Major life alterations can lead to frustration, anxiety, anger, depression, disruptive sleep and other adverse effects. Behaviors associated with anger and anxiety vary with age and are often a result of different reasons.

  • For children between the ages of 2 and 8, understanding why they’re not allowed to socialize with friends, play sports or go to school can be difficult and fear inducing.
  • Tweens may feel uneasy about their health and safety due to misinformation on social media or parental response to change.
  • Teens may experience disengagement or decreased motivation to do regular activities. They also may object to spending time with family and prefer alone time.

With children and teens spending more time online for schoolwork and entertainment, it’s also crucial that parents are aware of the common issues surrounding electronics during COVID-19.

These include:

  • Children having difficulty concentrating in front of a computer.
  • Eye tracking problems while completing online work.
  • Loss of the social interaction that a classroom setting provides.
  • Online safety threats from online predators and hackers.

Parents can help children address these issues by limiting and monitoring time spent on the computer. Families also can access the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s educational games to teach children how to safely navigate the web.

Coping Strategies for Parents and Children

Coping strategies are especially important during these stressful times and can help families ease tensions while engaging in healthy activities. Some strategies include:

  • Managing stress and anxiety by participating in calm, open conversations about COVID-19.
  • Providing educational information on COVID-19 to children through social stories, cartoons and online resources. Parents can find information through their primary care provider and reputable organizations.
  • Utilizing online family therapy sessions, telehealth services and the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health 24/7 Access Hotline (800-854-7771).
  • Engaging in outdoor exercise or performing chores outside. Walking, running or playing outside can help improve everyone’s mental well-being and physical health.
  • Practicing social distancing while also staying connected with relatives and friends through video chats on apps.

Though families are restricted by COVID-19, they can still engage in pleasurable activities. Whether it’s exercising outside or participating in therapy, these coping strategies can have a powerful impact on everyone.

Dr. Pal works for the Stramski Children’s Developmental Center at Miller Children’s & Women’s. Learn more about the services offered at the Stramski Center.