Research says lockdowns affect child speech, language skills

LONDON: There is a growing evidence that the past year of lockdowns has had an impact on young children’s language skills, according to research.

Data from 50,000 pupils and a survey of schools across England have shown an increased number of four- and five-year-olds needing help with language.

Evidence shows poor speech development can have long-term effects on learning.

The British Education Endowment Foundation (EEF) research suggests the measures taken to combat the pandemic have deprived the youngest children of social contact and experiences essential for increasing vocabulary.

According to the research, less or no contact with grandparents, social distancing, no play dates, and the wearing of face coverings in public have left children less exposed to conversations and everyday experiences.

Of 58 primary schools surveyed across England 76 per cent said pupils starting school in September 2020 needed more support with communication than in previous years

Around 96 per cent were concerned about pupils’ speech-and-language development.

And 56 per cent of parents were concerned about their child starting at school following the lockdown in the spring and summer, BBC news reported.

— Agencies