Parents’ Perceptions of Children’s Emotions, Parenting Experiences and Relationships Among Food Secure and Food Insecure Families in Atlantic Canada During the COVID-19 Pandemic

This study explored the relationship between food security status and parents’ perceptions of children’s emotions, parents’ experiences, and family relationships in Atlantic Canada during COVID-19. Parents (n = 676) of children aged 0–8 years living in the Atlantic provinces of Canada completed an online cross-sectional survey. Parents’ experiences and family relationships were negatively impacted by COVID-19 for families, with food insecure families affected more than food secure families. More food insecure families reported worry, loneliness, and decreased happiness in their children than food secure families. These results can inform programs and policies to address food insecurity and downstream health impacts during pandemics.