Everything that parents are experiencing, kids are too. Kids are affected by the stress that their parents have in their lives. Whether it is the mild frustration of being cooped up too many days in a row or the panic of not knowing where the money for food and rent is going to come from, children are affected by what their parents say and what their parents don’t say, as early as before they are even born.

Children at Greater Risk

Vulnerable Children Without School Support

The most at-risk children—those who get many of their meals from school and rely on teachers to notice when something is wrong—are now home full-time. Many have few resources and, in some heartbreaking cases, are stuck with their abusers.

Children With Disabilities

Children with disabilities are also more at risk right now. Those who receive accommodations and services at school—such as speech therapy, behavioral therapy, or structured interventions—are likely to regress without regular access to these services at home.

Mental Health and Emotional Impact

Unknown Long-Term Effects

It’s too soon to fully understand the extent of the problems that will occur. Kids who already struggle with mood disorders like anxiety or depression may either improve or worsen, depending on how safe and supported they feel at home.

Impact on Teenagers and Older Kids

Older children and teenagers—who are at a stage where their peers are most important—will likely struggle the most. And the longer this situation continues, the more challenging it may become.

Educational Disruptions

A Messy Shift to Online Learning

The quick move to online learning during spring was chaotic for many school systems. It remains uncertain whether more preparation will lead to better outcomes this fall and whether students will learn what they typically would in a traditional classroom.

No “Normal” in Education Right Now

Even sending students to physical schools is far from normal. With masks, social distancing, and constant fear of germs, there is no simple or standard option available. This fall brings uncharted territory for everyone.

The Irony of the Internet

Ironically, the internet—something that has long been a source of concern—has now become a safe way for children and adolescents to connect with peers and teachers and to feel less isolated.

The Direct Impact of COVID-19

Some kids will get sick. Some will get sick. Others may not experience severe symptoms but may unknowingly pass the virus to loved ones, who might become very ill or even die. These children will experience trauma, and it will be significant. While we don’t know exactly how many will be affected, the impact will touch many families—and it is heartbreaking.

What Can We Do to Help?

Connect with Families

If you have children and families in your life, connect with them in any way you can. Being a friend or mentor to a child—or even to a struggling parent—can make a world of difference.

Even small interactions, like a phone or Zoom call, offer kids chances to take turns, negotiate, and practice social skills, which can benefit them greatly.

Community and Church Involvement

Churches and community organizations have a great opportunity right now. With regular activities like sports, travel, and events being paused or altered, families need new ways to feel secure and supported. Creating opportunities for connection and routine can help bring a sense of normalcy and positivity to their week.

Practice Kindness and Understanding

Most importantly, practice kindness and avoid judging others. Nobody truly understands what someone else is going through during this time. It’s easy to judge someone’s Facebook posts, political views, or actions—but that helps no one.

We will go much farther by working together. Bite your tongue when necessary and go out of your way to be kind and supportive when you can.

FAQs

1. How does parental stress affect children during COVID-19?

Children are deeply impacted by their parents’ emotional state. Even if parents try to hide stress, children can sense anxiety, fear, and frustration. This can affect their mental health and development.

2. What challenges are children with disabilities facing during the pandemic?

Children who rely on school-based services such as speech or behavioral therapy are now missing out, which may lead to regression in their progress.

3. Are teenagers more affected by social isolation?

Yes. Teenagers and older children are at a developmental stage where peer relationships are critical. Social isolation can lead to emotional distress and may worsen mental health conditions.

4. Is online learning helping children stay on track?

While online learning helps maintain continuity, many students are not receiving the same quality or consistency of education as they would in a traditional classroom.

5. What is the role of the internet in supporting children right now?

Though once a source of concern, the internet now plays a vital role in helping kids stay connected to peers and teachers, reducing feelings of isolation.

Conclusion

This is a difficult and uncertain time for everyone—especially children. They’re not only absorbing the stress of the adults around them but also facing their unique challenges. Whether it’s emotional health, educational struggles, or the direct impact of illness, the effects of COVID-19 on children are serious and far-reaching.

While there are no easy answers, there are ways we can help: stay connected, offer kindness, and support the families around us. Even small efforts can make a lasting difference in a child’s life.

Need an Autism Evaluation?

Dr. Jessica Myszak has over 10 years of experience performing psychological evaluations with children and adults. She offers both in-person and telehealth evaluations. In addition to seeing clients on the Chicago North Shore, she can work with families who reside in Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin! If you want to learn more about potentially working with her, you can contact her to start the process.