THINK OF THE CHILDREN
Children are feeling the effects of COVID-19.
What do you mean?
Children are not known to be especially at risk, and many don't exhibit severe symptoms. But they can be affected in other ways. Here are some of the problems they're facing:
Child abuse…With most states experiencing school closures, experts are warning of a potential increase in child abuse. Stay-at-home orders have kept teachers from being able to observe and report signs of abuse. And stressors from the pandemic (think: job loss, bills) could put kids further at risk, without a safe way to escape or call for help. Some states have seen hotline calls decrease as much as 70% – a figure that raises concern abuse is going unreported and undetected.
Lack of education...Many households have had to adapt to homeschooling. But 15% of US households may not have access to high-speed internet. And many lack access to a computer. Now, with stay-at-home orders in effect, some children aren't able to meet their educational requirements. And while educators are proposing options to help them catch up – like summer school or an early fall start – some may be held back a grade.
Missing vaccines...While some doctors' offices are open, the World Health Organization says coronavirus fears are keeping parents from getting their children vaccinated. The org has said that even a minor disruption of immunization could lead to an outbreak of other diseases (think: measles, polio). And warns that children "will die" as countries report vaccine shortages because of coronavirus travel restrictions.
theSkimm
Children are one of the most vulnerable demographic groups in the world, and the effects of this pandemic may endanger them further. As they're forced to adapt to new school schedules and at-home life, many aren't able to receive the help they need.
If you believe a child is being abused, neglected, or in immediate danger of being harmed, call 911 or your local police department. You can also contact The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-4-A-CHILD.
