Early effects of the COVID-19 lockdown on children in north-western Bangladesh

Using data collected through a structured telephone-based survey in north-western Bangladesh during the height of the pandemic, we present evidence on the effects of household specific shocks on rural children induced by the COVID-19 lockdowns. We focus on three child-related outcomes: time use of children during school closures, plans regarding children’s future schooling, and the incidence of child marriages. We find that respiratory illness and job loss experienced in the household lowered expectations of a child’s future school continuation and increased the probability of marriage-related discussions for girls. The return of a male migrant led to a reduction of children’s time spent doing paid work, while the return of a female migrant led to a reduction in children’s time spent caring for others and doing household chores. Our findings offer a cautionary tale regarding the potential long-term effects of the pandemic and school closures on girls in developing countries.