Five years after the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the children born during that time—often called “COVID babies”—are now entering kindergarten. For many, it’s their first experience in a classroom, and the transition hasn’t been easy. From social anxiety to delays in speech and emotional regulation, these children are facing challenges that stem from spending their earliest years in isolation. We sat down with Kristen Miller, an early childhood expert at Celebree School, to talk about what today’s educators are seeing—and how parents can support their child’s social and emotional growth during this important stage.
Q: Kristen, how has the pandemic shaped the development of children born during COVID?
Kristen:
Children born during the height of the pandemic faced very real challenges. Many missed out on group play, social outings, and even simple interactions at grocery stores or parks. That kind of isolation impacted their speech, their ability to read social cues, and how they relate to the world around them. Some children are coming into kindergarten having never been in a large group before—so the adjustment is big.
Q: What challenges are these children facing now, especially as they start kindergarten?
Kristen:
We’re seeing a few consistent patterns: difficulty separating from parents, trouble sharing or waiting their turn, and high levels of social anxiety. Some children aren’t used to following a schedule or transitioning from one activity to the next. That can be tough in a classroom. But these aren’t character flaws—they’re skill gaps. And kids can absolutely learn those skills.
Q: Are teachers seeing more developmental delays now compared to pre-pandemic kindergarteners?
Kristen:
Yes. Many teachers report that this group has more emotional ups and downs. They may cry more easily or get overwhelmed by group dynamics. Some are behind in speech or cognitive milestones, but often that’s because they haven’t had enough exposure—not because something’s “wrong.” What they need is a little extra support and time to adjust.
Q: What can parents do to help their kids catch up socially and emotionally?
Kristen:
The best thing parents can do is give kids opportunities to practice those social skills in everyday settings. That could be a playdate, a library event, or even a trip to the playground. It’s also helpful to talk about feelings openly, teach simple coping tools like deep breaths, and model how to stay calm when things don’t go as planned.
Self-help skills are another big one. Let your child practice going to the bathroom on their own, opening their lunch, or tying their shoes. These might seem small, but they can make or break your child’s confidence during the school day.
Q: What advice would you give to a parent who’s feeling nervous or uncertain right now?
Kristen:
You’re not alone—and your child isn’t behind just because they need a little extra support. This generation went through something none of us could have predicted. With patience, consistency, and encouragement, they can absolutely thrive.
And don’t forget: You don’t have to do it all by yourself. Schools like Celebree are here to walk alongside you. We meet kids where they are and help them grow—socially, emotionally, and academically. That’s what we’re here for.
Q: Final thoughts?
Kristen:
Celebrate small wins. A successful drop-off. A day without tears. A new friend. Every step forward is something to be proud of. These kids are stronger than we think—and so are their parents.
Need support with your child’s school readiness?
Talk with your local Celebree School team. We’re here to help your child build confidence, feel connected, and grow with joy.