Out of the mouths of babes

Pre-school children surveyed on childcare return

WHILE the majority were delighted and excited to be back, almost 40% of pre-school children expressed anxiety or concern about their return to childcare last week in a survey carried out by the National Childhood Network (NCN).

Some expressed worries about the virus and their safety, while others wondered if playing with friends would still be allowed.

“Will it be okay to hug my friends again?” and “If I fall, will someone pick me up?” were among the comments recorded.

Just 10% stated they were sad to be returning to childcare in the national survey that captured the views of 1711 children, via their parents.

Many of the children expressed sophisticated concerns, reflecting considerable awareness and understanding of the health threat that has emerged in recent months and how their lives have had to change.

Over 60% of children said they were happy and excited to go back to their early learning and care settings, however. “I love my friends”, “I miss my teacher” and “It will be exciting to be back” were among the most frequent comments from the young research candidates.

Being reunited with friends and teachers, circle-time and stories, and the opportunity to play, sing, draw and dress-up once again were among the top positives the children looked forward to.

It is important to hear the voice of the child during this national emergency, and what they had to say was a powerful insight to their emotions and reasoning at this challenging time, according to Denise McCormilla, CEO of the National Childhood Network.

“Consulting with children is crucially important to the overall work of NCN, and, as early learning and childcare settings re-opened, our survey was designed to inform parents, childcare providers and staff, and to help them plan for the children’s return”.

Based on the children’s comments, the NCN was able to put in place practical supports and guidance for both parents and childcare providers as to the reassurance children might need and how to address feelings and concerns.

How to talk to the children about pods and social distancing, and the need for extra hygiene measures and face masks for staff, is addressed in the survey report circulated to parents and care providers.

Returning protocols regarding physical safety are obviously important, but having an emotionally safe environment is crucial as well, Imelda Graham, NCN board member, says.

“Carers may have to deal with a release of pent-up emotions in the little ones, as well as confusion. Various props, storyboards and games have been devised that explain the protocols in child-friendly terms. Teddies and dolls with face masks and tissues show how staying safe is normal for everyone, and new books and videos explain hygiene measures in a fun way”.

Two key points that emerged from the short survey were the degree to which children enjoyed playing, in general, and the love of playing outside.

The fact that a large percentage of children are looking forward to playing outdoors is useful, the survey organisers say, both in terms of the outdoors offering a safer environment, and the suggestion to providers to look for more rich play opportunities outside, and perhaps install awnings and additional playground equipment, where possible.

The National Childhood Network (NCN) has worked with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs and with other childcare organisations as part of an advisory group supporting the safe reopening of childcare facilities.

For further information on the survey results, contact National Childhood Network on 047 72469 or email info@ ncn.ie.