How Has the Lockdown Affected Our Children?

Living through the lockdown with my 5 and 7-year-old children has been a blend of challenges and observations. While they are young and not too rebellious, they still grasp the importance of communal efforts in fighting the coronavirus pandemic. They understand that masks are necessary when we go out, and they are sad that cherished outdoor spaces like parks, zoos, and playgrounds are closed. However, they demonstrate a surprising adaptability and resilience that has been both gratifying and somewhat heart-breaking.

Adapting to a New Normal

One of the unexpected pleasures during the lockdown was when my children expressed their longing for a McDonald's Happy Meal. My 5-year-old, in particular, requested two meals—one for himself and one for his brother. This simple request highlighted how their little world revolves around the familiar and comforting treats that are now harder to come by.

Our home is lucky to have a backyard, providing ample space for the kids to play and run around. On a drive, I posed a simple question to them: 'Is there anything you would like?' My older child, with a mix of curiosity and nostalgia, replied, 'I want to see my school!' This request led us to take a detour, allowing him to catch a glimpse of his school and its new playground equipment. His younger brother, eager to join in, added his own request: 'I want to see my school too!'

These experiences underscored the importance of schools in a child's life. For my 5-year-old, kindergarten would be a time for new friendships and play. However, due to the ongoing pandemic, he will likely be part of a virtual learning setup this fall. Despite the change, he remains undisturbed, which brings a mix of relief and worry to me as his parent.

Adapting to Home Life

At home, our daily routine is primarily focused on waking up late, having breakfast, mixing learning, playing, drawing, or coloring, and then lunch or snack time. This structured yet flexible routine seems to suit their young minds well. When I asked them about their feelings towards school, they initially mentioned missing it but quickly returned to their happy states.

Their joy is centered around little milestones and routines: 4 PM ice cream time in the backyard, weekend bath time, and pizza Sundays. My 7-year-old fondly mentions that he is happy because his parents are home. These small moments of comfort and routine are keeping them content during these extraordinary times.

Learning from a Young Author

Devansh Guru Bharadwaj, a young author, shares his personal experience of the lockdown in his book Unlocking in Lockdown. The book, available on Kindle, offers a unique perspective on how children process and adapt to the changes brought by the pandemic. His insights shed light on the resilience of young minds and their adaptability to a new normal.

While we may not know what the future holds, it is heartening to see how our children continue to navigate the challenges with grace. They remind us that happiness can be found in the simplest of things and that adapting to change is not just a necessity but a gift in disguise.