The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted all aspects of life, including education. Nursery schools, in particular, have been greatly affected by the pandemic. Here are some of how COVID-19 has impacted nursery school education. See over here to get information about early years foundation stage.
Closure of nursery schools:
One of the most significant impacts of COVID-19 on nursery school education has been the closure of schools. Many countries around the world implemented strict lockdown measures in an attempt to curb the spread of the virus. This meant that nursery schools had to close their doors, leaving parents and children without access to early childhood education.
Online learning:
Many nursery schools have turned to online learning to address the challenges posed by school closures. Teachers have been using online platforms to deliver lessons and activities to children, with parents acting as co-teachers at home. While online learning has allowed for some continuation of education, it has been challenging, including the need for parents to juggle work and homeschooling responsibilities.
The social and emotional impact:
The social and emotional impact of COVID-19 on young children has been significant. Children have been unable to interact with their peers and teachers, leading to isolation, loneliness, and anxiety. Young children thrive on social interaction and play-based learning, which the pandemic has dramatically disrupted.
Safety protocols:
When nursery schools reopened, they had to implement strict safety protocols to prevent the spread of the virus. This includes regular cleaning and disinfecting, temperature checks, hand washing, and social distancing. These measures can be challenging to implement with young children, who may struggle to understand why they can’t play with their friends or why they have to wear a mask.
Impact on teachers:
The pandemic has also had an impact on nursery school teachers. Teachers have had to adapt to new ways of teaching and interacting with children, often with little training or support. They have had to navigate the challenges of online learning, safety protocols, and young children’s social and emotional needs during a difficult and uncertain time.
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted nursery school education. The closure of schools, the shift to online learning, the social and emotional impact on children, safety protocols, and the effect on teachers are just some of the challenges faced by the sector. As we move forward, it’s essential to continue supporting and investing in early childhood education while prioritizing the health and safety of children, teachers, and families.