Is my child regressing due to the COVID-19 pandemic?
Most children have a very strong urge to move forward in their development. However, along with the excitement of being able to do new things comes stress. This stress can cause regression: temporary steps back in development. The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the crisis of care and learning. With the disruption of school, playdates with…, What regression are you seeing among children during the COVID-19 pandemic?, I’ve been seeing a lot of regression and more than what, in typical times, is developmentally appropriate. I’ve seen children regressing through using baby talk, needing help with routines, needing help with sleeping and toileting – and much more than what’s usual for them. Coping with and expressing strong feelings can be really challenging, so…, Some parents are seeing tantrums in their teenagers. How should they respond?, Support them to figure out ways to regulate their emotions – going for a walk, running, deep breathing, drawing, painting. Find ways for them to be in touch with friends and family. However, they will not be able to use any of these strategies during the tantrum. Once regulated a parent can say, “You were really upset. I wonder what is going on.”…, Other parents are noticing that their toilet-trained toddlers are now wetting the bed. What would you recommend to them?, This can be a very typical regression. Notice whether there are changes at home or school that may be impacting this. If it is something that may be making your child feel anxious, you can work to support your child. At this age, it might be helpful to have them put on a pull up/diaper for sleeping. Keep track of your child’s fluid intake and…, Many children are being affected by the disruption to their ‘normal’ school setting, childcare, play and/or learning environment. What would you recommend to parents who are dealing with this at home?, We know that children often do or emulate what their caregivers do, so I think parents need to find supports around managing their own stress as this can ultimately help their children’s wellbeing. My children are grown up, and I cannot imagine having to juggle what parents with growing children are doing now! They are having to help with virtual…, Many parents worry about their children catching up after the pandemic. Do you think children can catch up?, I do not have the ability to predict this. By staying hopeful and appreciating children’s natural curiosity, motivation and resilience, I would say yes, they will. In the meantime, read to your children and find ways to be together. Think and talk about what is going on outside. Play together and try to learn and grow together. Always remember the…, What advice would you give to parents right now?, Hang in there! We’re all doing the best we can. Not everyone parents in the same way, so do not compare yourself to other parents or your children to other children. You know what your values are, you know what you want for your children. We’re doing what we need to get through this. Nancy Close, PhD, is an Assistant Professor at the Yale Child…
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