Shifting play experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic: family responses to pandemic restrictions

Children’s play has shifted within the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly with increased time within the family home. This study responds to the following research questions: How did COVID-19 restrictions influence children’s play within and outside the home? How did parents describe their role in their children’s play during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic? Canadian Maritime families (n = 30) took part in three telephone interviews during the pandemic (July 2020, November 2020 and April 2021). Data were analyzed using qualitative description and thematic analysis to inductively identify codes and establish themes, including: (1) Facilitating play within the home; (2) Opportunities related to play outside the home; and (3) Shifting play in the outdoor environment. As families adhere to public health directives in response to COVID-19, children’s play experiences were shaped by a movement toward an increased emphasis on the outdoor environment and fewer playmates. Ongoing research is needed to understand the potential impacts on children’s development over time.