Closed schools and online learning during the pandemic significantly affected not only pupils' learning outcomes but also their mental health. Young people were cut off from their social network and opportunities to forge relationships outside the home. Judging by the devastating statistics on mental health decline during the pandemic, society must urgently help young people develop relationships in their life.
Professor of psychology Jean Rodes, found that relationships between children and caring adults can have long-lasting positive effects. Since school is a place where many of these relationships are formed, young people are suffering.
'Learning occurs in relationships', said Rodes. Therefore, after-school programs, sports teams, and other social activities are necessary for learning social-emotional skills and building strong connections.
Traci Baxley, an associate professor and author, advocated for healthy relationships, where the child feels heard and seen, in the classroom. Teachers, as well as parents, should teach kids how to handle stress and talk about their emotions. 'A lot of the time as parents, we need to stop knowing and start listening', she said.