The Impact of Covid-19 on Brazilian Children Born at the Pandemic’s Start

Flora, born on March 11, 2020, illustrates the trials faced by children born during the pandemic. With severe restrictions on social interactions and schooling, the first six years of life—vital for development—suffered immensely. Experts warn of the lasting negative impact on health and education for this generation of children in Brazil.

Flora, a child born on March 11, 2020—the day the World Health Organization declared a pandemic—has endured the unique challenges of growing up amidst Covid-19. One of her first words was “stretcher,” indicating her awareness of the masks her parents wore. She would cry when they donned masks, realizing they were leaving her behind.

Flora’s first birthday cake, adorned with crabs and mermaids, was shared with only a limited group, including her paternal grandparents and a few family friends. During March 2020, nearly 250,000 children were born in Brazil, coinciding with almost 4,000 Covid-related deaths per day.

The impact of the pandemic on children has been profound. According to Mariana Luz, CEO of the Maria Cecilia Souto Vidigal Foundation, the first six years of life present crucial developmental opportunities. Disruptions in medical checkups and vaccination schedules, coupled with prolonged school closures, have deprived children in Brazil, who have missed an average of a year and a half of schooling, thus worsening their developmental outcomes.

The onset of the pandemic profoundly affected Brazilian children, exemplified by Flora’s experiences. Born on the day the pandemic was declared, she represents the millions of children grappling with significant setbacks in health and education. This situation underscores the urgent need to address the long-term consequences of the pandemic on early childhood development and education.

Original Source: www1.folha.uol.com.br