How To Help The Covid Kids Generation Learn Social Skills

Five years after the Covid-19 lockdowns reshaped lives in March 2020, a new survey by BLK Dating and Social App reveals that young adults who were high schoolers during the pandemic—dubbed “Covid Kids”—are still grappling with the social fallout. The isolation of those formative years has left a lasting mark, with many struggling to rebuild confidence and connection in person.

The data paints a vivid picture of a generation navigating awkwardness, unease, and a reliance on screens, but also one eager to reconnect with the right support. BLK’s Senior Brand Strategist, Amber Cooper, sent over some practical strategies to help these young adults bridge the gap and reclaim their social groove.

A Generation in a Social Rut

The BLK survey, conducted among users who were in high school during the 2020 lockdowns, highlights the depth of the challenge. Before the pandemic, social life was vibrant: nearly a third of respondents met friends weekly, and over a quarter connected daily. Fast forward to 2025, and the landscape has shifted dramatically. More than half (53.9%) report that the lockdown experience continues to disrupt their ability to socialize in person. Of those, over a third feel awkward, uncomfortable, or avoid hangouts altogether, while one in five admit that face-to-face interaction feels significantly harder or that they struggle without the buffer of a screen.

Dating, a critical part of young adulthood, is particularly fraught. Close to half (44.2%) of respondents face hurdles in romantic pursuits. Nearly a quarter feel uncertain or freeze when trying to start a relationship, with some describing a lack of confidence that stalls them early on. Another 19.9% find in-person dating overwhelming, either opting for the safety of online chats or avoiding it due to stress. On BLK’s platform, over half prefer to ease into connections with online conversations before meeting, and a small but notable portion find real-world dating too intimidating to attempt.

Friendships haven’t fared much better. Over a quarter (27.7%) of “Covid Kids” report losing touch with most or all of their friends during or after the pandemic, a loss that compounds their social challenges. Even when they do socialize, one in five feel drained afterward or skip gatherings entirely, though a hopeful 44.5% find these interactions energizing, suggesting a desire to reconnect despite the hurdles.

The Long Shadow of Lockdown

The pandemic’s impact on this cohort stems from the abrupt disruption of their social development during a pivotal time. High school is when young people hone interpersonal skills, build confidence, and form lasting bonds. For “Covid Kids,” those years were marked by virtual classrooms, canceled events, and physical isolation. The survey reflects this toll: many describe a lingering discomfort in social settings, a preference for digital communication, or a sense of being “out of practice” with in-person connection.

Yet, the data also reveals resilience and ambition. Nearly 28% of BLK users express eagerness to meet new people in person as soon as possible, and 41.7% are blending online and in-person interactions to rebuild their social lives. Another 23.4% lean toward real-world connections but need a nudge to take the leap. These figures underscore a generation not defined by stagnation but by a need for tools to navigate a changed social landscape.

Five Strategies to Rebuild Connection

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by “Covid Kids,” Amber Cooper, BLK’s Senior Brand Strategist, has outlined five actionable tips to help them reconnect on their own terms. These strategies draw on the resilience forged during the pandemic while offering practical, low-pressure ways to ease back into social and romantic life.

Lean on Your Resilience

The pandemic was a crucible that tested everyone, and surviving it is a badge of strength. Cooper suggests using this shared experience as a conversation starter. Asking someone about what kept them going during lockdown can spark a meaningful exchange, showcasing personal grit and creating an instant bond.

Start Small

Rebuilding social confidence doesn’t require grand gestures. Cooper recommends beginning with brief, low-stakes interactions, like a quick coffee date or a short phone call. These small steps help build comfort over time, allowing “Covid Kids” to regain their footing without overwhelming pressure.

Keep It Simple with Questions

Social anxiety often stems from overthinking. Cooper advises keeping conversations light by asking open-ended, relatable questions, such as someone’s current favorite activity or what they missed most during lockdown. These prompts invite genuine responses and take the focus off performance.

Stay in the Moment

Worrying about potential missteps can derail connection. Cooper encourages focusing on the present—the person’s tone, their energy—rather than what could go wrong. A simple mental reminder, like “I’m here, and that’s enough,” can ground individuals and foster authentic interactions.

Make It Personal

Connection feels most natural when it aligns with personal passions. Whether it’s sharing a favorite song, suggesting a gaming night, or bonding over a shared hobby, Cooper urges “Covid Kids” to shape interactions around what makes them feel most like themselves. This approach builds confidence and creates memorable moments.

BLK’s Commitment to “Covid Kids”

BLK Dating and Social App is more than a platform—it’s a resource for young adults navigating a post-pandemic world. By offering a space to connect both online and in person, BLK meets “Covid Kids” where they are, supporting their journey toward meaningful relationships. The survey’s findings highlight both the scale of the challenge and the potential for growth, with many users showing a strong desire to overcome their social hurdles.

Cooper remains optimistic about this generation’s trajectory. She views “Covid Kids” not as stalled but as recalibrating, adapting to a world that demands new ways of connecting. With tailored guidance and a platform designed to foster connection, BLK is helping these young adults take their first steps toward rebuilding their social worlds.

Looking Ahead

As the five-year mark of the Covid-19 lockdowns passes, the BLK survey serves as a sobering reminder of the pandemic’s lasting impact on a generation. Yet, it also offers hope. “Covid Kids” are resilient, eager, and ready to reconnect—they just need the right tools to do so. With strategies like those from Amber Cooper and platforms like BLK, this generation is poised to overcome its social rut, one small, meaningful connection at a time.