Experiences in times of COVID-19: Home-life, social connections, and schooling for Aotearoa New Zealand children

Abstract

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated lockdown measures on child and family functioning requires ongoing investigation to understand its far-reaching effects. This study investigated the experiences of 10-year-old children (n = 2421) from the Growing Up in New Zealand longitudinal cohort during some of the strictest pandemic-related lockdown measures of 2020, with the aim of examining the effects of these measures on several aspects of children's lives and wellbeing. Children reported on their lockdown experiences in relation to household ‘bubbles’, school, family, social connectedness and activities. The findings indicate that although the lockdown restrictions disrupted regular routines and activities, children and their families largely demonstrated great adaptability and had largely positive experiences together, despite the worldwide crisis. For example, 79% of children in the study indicated that they were having a good time with their family during the lockdown period and almost 85% indicated that they felt moderately or strongly socially connected with others during this time. This study also highlights challenges experienced by some children during lockdown. Post-pandemic strategies aimed at mitigating difficulties and improving children's experiences should aim to reflect the diversity of these experiences. The findings of this study are relevant to other countries that implemented lockdown restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, shedding light on the day-to-day experiences of children and families during this unprecedented time.