DOCUMENTING THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON CHILDREN AND THEIR CARE PROVIDERS

What is the project about?

The aim of this study is two fold. The first aim is to document the impact of COVID-19 on children and their providers and compare the effects of this impact on families with and without a disability. The second is to document the response and preparedness of early childhood development centers to the pandemic.

Why is the project important?

Globally, the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has claimed more than 273,998 lives. In Ghana alone, there are over 4500 cases and 22 deaths, with cases expected to rise. The pandemic may have a severe impact on children and their care providers such as infection with the virus itself, the socioeconomic impacts of restrictive, preventive measures, and delays in reaching the Sustainable Development Goals through stoppage (or partial shutdowns) of essential services and programs, such as schools and immunization services.  Currently, there are no published studies in Ghana comparing families of children with disabilities to those without on the impact of COVID-19 on families. For Ghana’s response and planning, the effects of this pandemic on children and their key providers (like parents and teachers) should be documented.

How is this project going to solve the problem?

The results of the study can be used to identify areas of need for these children, improve planning for reopening schools, support advocacy efforts, and contribute to a better understanding of the effects of the pandemic on children.

How will the study be conducted?

This is a longitudinal, mixed-methods study with two-time points. The first time point is the month after ethical approval. The second is in October when schools have reopened. The latter will be used to document practices of schools in preventing and responding to COVID-19. A survey will be carried out and trained research assistants will collect data through the phone. This survey is open to all early childhood development schools in Ghana. Topics that will be examined include health-seeking behaviors, engagement of children in learning, school readiness and preparedness for COVID-19, mental health and stress, the socio-economic impact of COVID, and food insecurity.