Mothers’ Perceptions of the Impact of COVID-19 on Family Communication and Children’s Play

Purpose: The Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) epidemic, which has been effective worldwide, and the resulting 'social distance' and hygiene measures have led to changes in family communication behaviors and children's daily life activities. The current study aimed to reveal the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic on family communication and play behavior of young children. Method: In this study, which was conducted as a qualitative study, phenomenology was used. The study examined mothers' perceptions of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on family communication and children's play in Türkiye. A focus group discussion was held with a group of five mothers who had young children between the ages of 30 and 40 months. Results: As a result of the analysis of the data obtained, three main themes emerged. These themes are listed as follows: (i) children's perception of COVID-19, (ii) the impact of the COVID-19 epidemic on family communication (iii) and the impact of the epidemic on children's play and play materials. It has been determined that pandemic restrictions have positive and negative effects on family communication and children's play. Conclusion: This research has revealed that the COVID-19 epidemic, which has affected the whole world, affects parents, children and their communication styles, as well as children's play behavior. Findings have shown that family life practices, children's behavior, and parents' mental health are both negatively and positively affected by periods of isolation due to the pandemic. It is thought that these research findings may help find effective ways to protect and improve the communication of children and families during the global epidemic and recovery processes.