Societal Intersections and COVID-19 Effects on Young Children Vulnerability

Abstract

Vulnerability is identified as multifaceted, in which young children's holistic wellbeing is threatened. Children are exposed to intersections of potential risk-clusters in their environments. This chapter illuminates intersections of vulnerabilities affecting young children. It conceptualises these in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic within an early childhood care and education (ECCE) context. The effects of COVID-19 intersect existing vulnerabilities in young children. A discourse of enlightenment addresses young children's vulnerability to promote healthy childhoods. A glimpse into ECD policy and relevant theories supports the contextualisation of children's vulnerabilities. A transdisciplinary approach is presented to invite various disciplines who are involved in working and supporting young children. The chapter hopes to contribute to the work of the ECCE sector and all those associated in the efforts to transform early childhoods and to optimise young children's early childhood experiences.