The Importance of Relationships to Help Young Children, Parents, and Caregivers Impacted by the COVID Pandemic

The COVID pandemic is a disaster that introduced an invisible danger and increased anxiety. Young children are affected by the changes in routines, social distancing, virtual schooling, separations from parents, and also working from home, missing friends, and family. Uncertainties about duration and safety, accompanied by continually changing information and guidelines, bring increased attention to the psychological needs of children and effects on cognitive, social, and emotional development. This chapter will consider ways to foster security for children through relationships with parents, caregivers, schools, and community resources.