Impact of COVID-19 on families varies widely, survey shows

A recent surveys in Canada has revealed that the impact of COVID-19 on families varies widely, partly depending on the age(s) of their child(ren).

Whatever the age of their children, a majority of parents were ‘very’ or ‘extremely concerned’ about balancing child care, schooling, and work, according to a new Statistics Canada survey.

Parents of school-aged children between 4 and 11 years old appeared to be struggling the most, with 80% of those with children in that age group saying they were either ‘very’ or ‘extremely’ concerned. Even of those who were the least concerned (parents of school children aged 12 to 14), more than half (55%) rated themselves very or extremely concerned about balancing these factors.

Overall, however, the results will probably cause few surprises for any parent who has experienced multiple disruptions to work, school, and life in general as a result of this year’s coronavirus crisis.

For example, Canadian parents said the other major concerns for their families were managing children’s behaviours, stress levels, anxiety and emotions (61%); having less patience, raising their voice, scolding or yelling (46%); staying connected with family or friends (43%), getting along with and supporting each other (37%) and feeling lonely in their own home (30%).

They were also worried about things like their children’s opportunities to socialize with friends, the amount of screen time, mental health and academic results.

The Triple P – Positive Parenting Program® have made a number of free resources available to parents to help them cope with COVID-19 changes, including a new guide to healthy relationships and managing conflict between parents; Top Tips and full parenting guide to help parents cope with uncertain times and COVID-19, including advice for parents of younger children, parents of teenagers, and parents of children with a disability; and a free online magazine featuring articles and ideas, and interviews with parents and Triple P providers. All resources are available from the Triple P parent website: www.triplep-parenting.net

See a graphic summarizing the key findings of the Statistics Canada survey here.  (In French, here.)