Gehendra Prasad Dhakal

COVID Crisis, Children’s Creativity, and Publication

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to families and communities worldwide, with children being among the most affected. Schools closed, routines were disrupted, and young people found themselves spending countless hours at home. Despite these restrictions, I noticed a remarkable trend – children began turning to creativity as an outlet, transforming their experiences into stories, art, and more. This natural inclination to create became a powerful way for children to cope with uncertainty and connect with others, even from a distance. Seeing this outpouring of creativity inspired me to develop platforms where children could express and share their ideas with a wider audience. I organized and participated in initiatives that encouraged them to explore different forms of expression, including:

• Art competitions that allowed children to showcase their unique perspectives through drawings and paintings
• Storytelling projects where young voices could narrate their own experiences during the pandemic
• Online showcases and digital publications to highlight their works and bring a sense of community and achievement

These efforts were not just about giving children a voice but also about showing them the impact their voices could have. By publishing their works, we provided them with validation and confidence, reinforcing the idea that their stories and creativity were valuable. This initiative reminded me of the importance of nurturing creativity, especially in challenging times. Supporting children’s expressions helped build resilience and fostered a sense of belonging and pride, which I believe will benefit them well beyond this crisis. Through these projects, I aim to continue inspiring and empowering the next generation to express, create, and connect.