Abstract
This study sought to explore the daily life of families with children aged 0 - 6 years old, living in Fortaleza, Ceará - Brazil, during the period of social distancing stipulated by the State Government. This qualitative research was conducted with data collected by means of video or phone interviews with thirty mothers, between July and August 2020. The empirical material was analyzed in the light of Bardin’s content analysis, generating two thematic categories: (1) the exercise of parental care in Covid-19 times; and (2) the daily life of children in the face of the pandemic. The narratives revealed that some caregivers tried to play games and practice arts and crafts with their children, besides explaining what was happening in the world scenario - thus exercising positive parenting. Moreover, the social distancing measures promoted parental tolerance during the time children were exposed to screens, and parents showed to influence the practice of unhealthy eating habits and the manifestation of behavior changes in their children. These findings highlight the need for a continuous monitoring of aspects related to these children’s development, as well as for their return to face-to-face activities.
Keywords:
Covid-19; Child; Child Development; Qualitative research; Parenting