9. Parents’ Perspectives on Their Children’s Play and Friendships during the Covid-19 Pandemic in England

Abstract

The importance and value of children’s play and friendships in education is now becoming widely recognized as being important to children’s well-being, learning and development. The value of this friendship was magnified when the Covid-19 pandemic temporarily ceased or limited the opportunities for children to socially interact and play with their friends. In March 2020 schools closed and were only open to key worker or vulnerable children. The lack of access to play and social interaction for children is contrary to the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, Article 15 (freedom of association), that states children should have the right to play with other children, form friendships and join organizations. This chapter explores the views and perceptions of parents on the absence of play and friendship for their children. A pilot case study approach was adopted involving five parents. Data were collected through semi-structured online interviews via Zoom, reflection and fieldnotes. Findings provide new insights into strategies used by children and families to find alternative ways to play and interact with peers. These include the use of video messages, Zoom games, doorstep visits and play with siblings. The chapter argues for consideration of this knowledge as children attempt to move forward in ‘new times’ and in respect of similar traumatic events in the future.