While much attention has been paid to the educational challenges the COVID-19 pandemic has created, less attention has been given to the social challenges the pandemic presents for high school teenagers. Social distancing measures have effectively cancelled prom, graduation ceremonies, even final exams. Unlike elementary aged children, teenagers are more aware of current events and feel the impacts of the pandemic more acutely.

Encouraging parents to recruit their children as partners in the fight against the pandemic, Harvard's Medical School published a list of tips and suggestions to discuss COVID-19 with teenagers without increasing their anxiety. Recognizing social interaction is a hallmark of the teenage experience, the Child-Mind Institute - a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting teenagers and families - provides insight into supporting teenagers and maintaining mental health during increased social isolation.

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