Northern Ireland

Covid-19 restrictions could have long-term impact on children's play and development

When schools were closed, the type of play children were able to engage in changed
When schools were closed, the type of play children were able to engage in changed When schools were closed, the type of play children were able to engage in changed

CHILDREN'S natural desire to play has been curbed by Covid restrictions - potentially impacting their long-term health, wellbeing and development, a report has found.

Research by PlayBoard NI said young people were facing challenges they usually would not face.

It surveyed those aged five to 18 about their experiences during lockdown, with a focus on play and education.

When schools were closed, the type of play children were able to engage in changed.

Being active dropped from 53.2 to 31.4 per cent among those surveyed while participation in social play fell from 58.9 to just 5 per cent.

At the same time, the proportion involved in technology-based play increased from 33.9 to 55.7 per cent.

While the report illustrated the negative impact of lockdown, there were also positives, with some children reporting that the restrictions offered an opportunity to explore new play activities and experiences, which enabled them to develop new skills.

A small majority reported that remote learning was a positive experience, and they were able to spend more time with their families.

Key recommendations from the report include the adoption and implementation of statutory protections for children's play, as well as a greater appreciation of its value as a key developmental activity in homes, schools and communities.

PlayBoard Chief Executive Jacqueline O'Loughlin said children's right to play had been seriously diminished.

"Covid-19 restrictions changed the way children played and this raises long-term health and wellbeing concerns such as activity levels and socialisation," she said.

"Engaging in a range of play activities is central to children's development, learning, health and happiness. Children and young people have faced challenges they wouldn’t normally face, with 60 per cent of those taking part in our survey saying they felt sad during lockdown, and half feeling frustrated, angry or upset. Almost two-thirds of children thought that school closures had negatively affected their education, with 90 per cent reporting that meeting their friends was what they missed most.

"School is much more than a place of learning for children; it offers structure to their day and allows for social interaction with their peers through play and other activities, essential for their social development. Missing out on these interactions, including with their teachers, was one of the most challenging aspects reported."

The online survey and report were compiled by PlayBoard NI with support from Dr Victoria Simms, a developmental psychologist at Ulster University.

"The Covid-19 restrictions dramatically changed the way children play, interact and engage in physical activity. Children reported a mixture of experiences, from feeling isolated and sad to feeling creative and enjoying quality time with their families," Dr Simm said.

"Children in this study showed great insight and understanding of these changes and why they occurred. However, as we move through, and emerge from, this global pandemic we must prioritise children's right to play and their education. If we fail to do so we ultimately let down a generation of children who really deserve our respect and support."