School closures; the impact on children's well-being and education.

In sub-Sarai Africa, school closures caused by the pandemic had exacerbated previously existing inequalities, namely children who do not have access to the technology needed for distance learning.

The lack of access to radios, television, computers, the internet, and data left many students unable to engage in remote learning.

Furthermore, school closures have had a significant negative impact on girls as they are often expected to take on childcare responsibilities and household chores.

What has become evident is when children need to use technology to study and access devices or data is in short supply, and when they do, boys often get more access to these resources than girls.

Another alarming factor is girls are at an increased risk of child marriage, as research by Human Rights Watch in Malawi, South Sudan, and Tanzania shows a strong connection between girls leaving or being out of school and being forced into marriage.

Moreover, Caregivers with no to low levels of formal education have more significant difficulty supporting children with home learning hence exasperating distance learning.

In developed nations, the main concern is the mental health of children due to school closures.

Numerous studies have shown that social isolation can cause higher rates of adverse outcomes for individuals' mental and physical health.

While school is primarily a place of education, it is also the centre of a child social life. School offers teenagers and young adults an opportunity to connect with their peers. It's an opportunity for them to socialize and express themselves. However, many young adults have reported feeling lonely, unmotivated, or discouraged without regular social interaction with schools closing.

Many students shared feelings of stress, anxiety, isolation, and depression, which they linked to their school community's Lack of contact.

How you can support Young Adult:

You want to respect their independence, you can still offer constructive support to help them cope with this difficult time.

·       Give Your Child a Private Space in the Home

·       Offer to Be a Resource, But Don't Push

·       Allow Them to Set Their Schedule

·       Supporting a College Student Through Virtual Classes