Nursery World - Parents worry about children's mental health and well-being in return to school

Half of parents (51 per cent) are concerned about their children’s mental health and well-being as they return to school this month, many for the first time since March, a survey suggests.

Parents think schools should do more to support children's mental health and well-being

Findings from research carried out for the Early Intervention Foundation (EIF) found that parents are particularly worried about how their children will:

The survey, which was conducted by Ipsos MORI between 28 August to 4 September with 643 parents of children aged from four- to 16-years-old, found that four in 10 parents (39 per cent) believed their children’s mental health and well-being had worsened since lockdown began. A lack of contact with friends was the most common reason given for this (82 per cent), followed by a lack of daily routine (62 per cent).

Children’s mental health and well-being was particularly a worry for parents from lower-income households (58 per cent for those earning up to £19,999, compared with 44 per cent for those earning £55,000 or more).

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included