How delay in opening schools affects your children
Polokwane Observer spoke to local psychologist, Vincent Cloete about the effects of Covid-19 and the postponement of the opening of schools on children.
The Department of Education recently announced that schools will reopen on 15 February. Polokwane Observer spoke to local psychologist, Vincent Cloete about the effects of Covid-19 and the postponement of the opening of schools on children.
“Children as individuals will be affected differently both mentally and emotionally by the Covid-19 pandemic. Children who are already dealing with pre-existing psychological conditions are among the most vulnerable to develop exacerbated mental health concerns. There is not going to be any universal response to the effects of the pandemic because that is not how trauma works. The harmful effects of this pandemic will not be distributed equally,” Cloete explains.
Some children that are, for example, going to Gr 1 might be disappointed as they were looking forward to going to the big school. Other children might just be happy to have an extended holiday. Learners in Gr 12 might be concerned about the fact that the schools are opening later and possible further disruptions in their schooling as there could be fears of more waves of Covid-19.
“In times of stress and disrupted routines, it is normal for people of all ages to experience signs of distress. For young children, this may include increased clinginess, tearfulness, nightmares or temper tantrums. You may also see children returning to behaviours they had previously outgrown, such as thumb-sucking or bed-wetting.
“For older children and teens, you may see physiological changes, such as changes in sleeping patterns or appetite, reduced energy, or increased physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach-aches.
“Cognitive, or thinking changes, are also common and can include forgetfulness and distraction. Some children or adolescents might become more withdrawn or socially isolated.
“Finally, increased worries about health and about the future are also common. While all these are normal reactions, parents should be observing their child’s behaviour and noticing changes so that they can support their coping. The vast majority of youth will be resilient in the face of even severe stress or trauma. However, there are some children that may experience more lasting mental health effects.”
“Parents should contact their nearest mental health provider for advice, they can also contact helplines such as Suicide Crisis Line at 0800 567 567 or Sadag Mental Health Line at (011) 234 4837 or Childline at 08000 55 555.”
