COVID-19 and Its Effects on Social-Emotional Well-Being in Early Childhood

Effects on Children, Educators, and Parents

Behavioral Issues in Schools

Children affected by the pandemic have exhibited significant behavioral challenges, such as emotional dysregulation, aggression, and difficulty with peer interactions. Teachers report increased stress and burnout as they navigate these challenges, showing the need for additional resources and trauma-informed training. 

Effects on Parent-Child Relationships

The pandemic disrupted family routines and increased stress for parents, affecting their ability to provide emotional support. This has led to attachment issues, anxiety, and emotional difficulties in children. Positive parenting programs and stress management strategies can help rebuild these relationships. 

Social and Emotional Learning Challenges

Remote learning during the pandemic limited opportunities for children to develop important social skills. Educators continue to address these gaps, but many face burnout due to increased workloads. SEL-focused resources and teacher support are necessary for fostering recovery in children. 

Impacts on Early Childhood Educators

Educators are navigating the dual burden of academic instruction and addressing social-emotional challenges in students. This stress has resulted in staffing shortages. This can be solved through systemic changes, including improved teacher support systems. 

Proposed Solutions

Recovery requires parents, teachers, and communities to collaborate by:


Support for Children: Resources for Educators and Parents

Local Resources for Parents and Educators in Fairbanks, Alaska

To support children in their social-emotional recovery, these local resources can help:

Parent Support and Education

Resource Center for Parents and Children (RCPC)
Offers parenting classes, workshops, and family support services.


Mental Health Services

Fairbanks Community Mental Health Services
Provides counseling and therapy for children and families experiencing emotional and behavioral challenges.


Early Childhood Development Programs

Thrive Alaska
Focuses on child development through Early Head Start and Head Start programs, supporting families with young children.


Educational Support

Fairbanks North Star Borough School District (FNSBSD)
Offers SEL programs and resources for students to build resilience and emotional skills.


Social and Recreational Opportunities

Fairbanks Children’s Museum
Engage your child in interactive play and developmentally appropriate activities to build social skills.


Trauma-Informed Support

Interior Alaska Center for Nonviolent Living (IACNVL)
Provides counseling, educational programs, and support for families dealing with trauma.


Sources

Behavioral Issues in Schools


Parent-Child Relationship Dynamics


Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Challenges


Impact on Early Educators


Proposed Solutions