The Covid-19 pandemic has significantly transformed children’s social and family behavior in Nepal. They have become deeply engrossed in the digital world, prioritizing screen time over reading and writing. Their interest in spending time with family members, attending social gatherings, or participating in outdoor activities has noticeably declined.
Shifting interests and social behavior
Before the pandemic, children eagerly insisted on visiting fun parks, movies, and new places, making it challenging for parents to keep them at home. School-organized educational tours and picnics were filled with laughter, jokes, songs, and games, strengthening their bond with teachers and friends. However, in the post-Covid era, children have shifted their attention to personal gadgets. Instead of engaging in group activities, they form small interest-based groups and spend time playing online games. They show little interest in attending social events, preferring isolation over interaction. Even when encouraged to join group activities, they participate briefly and then withdraw.
Their eating habits have also changed—healthy food is often ignored in favor of junk food. Moreover, children have become more secretive about their activities and are reluctant to share experiences with teachers. This increasing detachment from group interactions has led to a decline in their ability to engage in social and extracurricular activities.
Changing attitudes towards guests and gatherings
Before the pandemic, children enjoyed having guests at home. They looked forward to receiving chocolates, gifts, and delicious food. They eagerly shared personal stories about their studies, friends, and school experiences. Additionally, when parents were away, children would often request guests to stay longer to avoid study-related restrictions.
However, post-Covid, children exhibit discomfort and irritation when guests visit. They see social gatherings as an intrusion into their private space and show minimal interest in engaging with guests. Greetings are often brief, and they fail to show appreciation for gifts. They avoid eye contact, give short responses, and quickly retreat to their rooms. The warmth and excitement of welcoming guests have been replaced by a desire for solitude.
Furthermore, children are increasingly protective of their private space. They dislike family members entering their rooms and hesitate to share what they are watching on their devices, fearing objections from parents. They prefer following their self-made schedules rather than those set by their parents. Their private room and gadgets have become their entire world.
Decline in outdoor activities and social interaction
The shift from outdoor play to indoor screen time is evident. Before Covid-19, children would insist on visiting parks, and their presence in community playgrounds was vibrant. This outdoor play significantly contributed to their physical, social, and psychological well-being. The playground was their real world.
Now, the parks and playgrounds are noticeably quieter. Children no longer push their parents to take them out; instead, they engage in digital activities within the confines of their rooms. Singing, dancing, and playing have been confined to the virtual space, reducing real-world social interactions.
Parents’ perception and household changes
Parents frequently complain that their children spend excessive time on gadgets but paradoxically feel relieved that they are not wasting time outside or engaging in conflicts with peers. Some even take pride in the fact that their children do not attend unnecessary parties or spend time with guests. The household has become quieter, with children withdrawing from family spaces like the kitchen and living room to spend more time in their private rooms. While this peaceful environment may seem beneficial, it raises concerns about children’s social development and emotional well-being.
The way forward
To address these challenges, parents must lead by example. Reducing their own gadget use in front of children is crucial. A well-balanced family schedule should be created, ensuring that screen time is limited, and interactive family moments are prioritized. Discussions on the advantages and disadvantages of digital devices should be openly conducted at home, school, and within the curriculum.
While we cannot entirely separate children from the digital world, we can integrate social norms and values into their digital experiences. Schools and parents must collaboratively design engaging schedules that cater to children’s interests while reinforcing moral education, family values, and the significance of travel and real-world experiences. By finding a balance between digital engagement and traditional values, we can help children develop into well-rounded individuals who appreciate both technology and social connections.
