Caring for children during COVID-19 : the experiences of South African families with children in middle childhood

Abstract

COVID-19’s impact was so great that it impacted the entire world. The world we knew changed completely. People needed to isolate themselves in their homes for the first part of the lockdown. Only those who were within a profession regarded as essential were allowed to work. The South African Government enforced specific rules and regulations aimed at countering the infection rate of COVID-19. Social distancing, wearing masks in public, using sanitiser regularly, working from home, children receiving education from home, and not being able to visit someone in the hospital all became the new norm in South Africa.

The full effect that COVID-19 had on the lives of individuals is still being studied as COVID-19, not only had an immediate effect on people but also affected them in the long run overall. Children are future adults and therefore it is crucial to raise them in such a way so that they can become responsible adults that will fit well within society. COVID-19 has set challenges for many families within South Africa which may have made it difficult for them to raise their children.

The goal of this study was to explore the experiences of caregivers with children in middle childhood in their care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Caregivers are seen as anyone who has a child within their care, whether the child is their biological child or not. A qualitative research approach was used in this study which helped the researcher to collect as much in-depth information as possible about the experiences of caregivers with children in middle childhood in their care during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data was gathered using semi-structured interviews which were guided by an interview schedule. Non-probability sampling was used as participants were not randomly selected. All the participants were clients of CMR-East Pretoria and fulfilled the requirements set out to take part in this study. Purposive sampling ensured that specific participants, who could provide relevant, information-rich descriptions of their experience were included. Six participants formed part of the study. The research is based on Bronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory and the Family Systems Theory which allowed for exploration and interpretation of the micro, meso, exo, macro, and chrono systems from a holistic point of view. The findings of this study imply that COVID-19 influenced the finances of families and the everyday functioning of households. It showed the importance of a strong support system to build resilience. The findings also gave a clear indication of participants' reaction to the COVID-19 rules and regulations that were set in place by the South African Government and the effect it had on caring for the children in middle childhood.