Disparities Amid the "Gift of Time": Experiences of Families With Young Children During COVID-19 Learning-at-Home

• In Event: Poster Session 1: Parents and Families in Early Childhood

Abstract

This study explores the experiences of 240 families with young children, ages 0-8, during the COVID-19 shelter-at-home in one Midwestern state. Families were surveyed about four contemporary family issues:1) inclusion of children with special needs; 2) impact of media and technology; 3) school and family relationships; and 4) families and stress. Despite feelings of being overwhelmed by learning-at-home, families reported positives, re-discovering the joy of outdoors, and being with family and friends. While the challenges reported were similar across SES and race/ethnicity, disparities emerged in families’ concerns. Non-White families were significantly more concerned about food, health, and post-COVID than White families. One glimmer of hope, families receiving public assistance reported feeling more supported by their schools/programs.

Authors

• Tomoko Wakabayashi, Oakland University

• Jill Claxton, Oakland University

• Saundra Harris, Oakland University