The Affects of the Pandemic

In my research I found that because in person events and interactions were limited during the pandemic, children missed out on these opportunities to develop social skills. While schools held classes remotely, children lost important time learning how to effectively relate with their peers and engage with authority figures like teachers. The pandemic had a significant impact on children's mental health causing social isolation. Because of this isolation it caused anxiety, depression, and some suicide. Also, fear was another issue that the children dealt with. During this time it forced children to spend more time on tablets, phones, and video games, television which can negatively impact their cognitive and socio-emotional development which caused sleep disruption which aggravated the physical and psychological health of children. The pandemic caused division within families when it should've brought us together. During this time families should have been having bible study in the homes, sitting and eating together the word tells us in 1 Timothy 3:4-5 parents are responsible for the spiritual growth of their family one that rule well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity, for if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God? What we saw during the pandemic is that these children have made idols out of social media, and video games. The word clearly tells us to keep ourselves from idols. (1John 5:21)

Shakena,

Very good points made, I too believe that children missed out on developing social skills. Teenagers need the ability of to relater personally with family and friends to develop social relationships. Ecclesiastes 11:9 says, young people, it’s wonderful to be young! Enjoy every minute of it. Do everything you want to do; take it all in. But remember that you must give an account to God for everything you do. The Bible instructs young people to cherish their youth, but during the COVID-19 pandemic, it was not an enjoyable time for them or most people. As you mentioned, the pandemic limited social growth and spiritual growth as most churches were closed as well. During the pandemic, we were unable to be fully present for our young people. Now, we pray for the opportunity to make up for that lost time by speaking with them and praying alongside them, as guided by the Holy Spirit.