More than a year into the Covid-19 pandemic, how have Brazilian kids’ lives changed?

In July 2021, we conducted a study to understand what kids aged 6 to 12 in Brazil are like and what effects the pandemic has had upon them. Here’s some of what we learned:

They have new routines. Compared with pre-Covid, Brazilian kids said they are doing things at different times now – including school (84%), activities (81%), engaging with screens (83%), going to bed (83%), and waking up (66%).

They’re more independent. In all, 71% of Brazilian kids said they learned something new during the pandemic. Kids aged 3 to 5 became more skilled at taking care of themselves, focusing on tasks like putting on their own shoes (53%), showering by themselves (36%), and getting dressed (36%). Kids 6 to 8 learned about subjects they’re curious about (76%), as well as how to clean their room (69%), navigate online platforms on their own (57%), and cook (46%). And kids 9 to 12 learned some important household responsibilities, such as how to wash dishes (72%), shop online (64%), and save money (38%).

They’re hungry for new experiences. Seven in 10 Brazilian kids (69%) said they had not had new experiences since the beginning of the pandemic and 73% want to go somewhere new once the pandemic has ended. When they do get out there to do something different, 61% want to be with friends. Additionally, 43% reported that they would like to have a birthday party with friends and extended family.

Physical contact makes them anxious. Almost 8 in 10 Brazilian kids (78%) said they were still afraid of Covid-19. This worry translates into behavior, with 71% fearful of touching others or being touched, and 68% afraid to hug their friends.

Gaming has become a social and educational platform. Most kids surveyed (86%) said they prefer games that allow them to play with friends in their individual homes. Many parents saw the benefits of multiplayer gaming – 49% said they see them as a way for their kids to keep in touch with friends, and 54% allow their kids to play them because they stimulate quick, strategic, and logical thinking.

They find joy in the little things. For 82% of Brazilian kids, happiness is being around family and friends. For many, this can be simple activities, such as bike riding in a park (63%), watching movies and eating snacks with their parents (54%), or cooking with their parents (42%).