The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on our lives in countless ways. One of the less obvious, but far-reaching, consequences of the pandemic concerns social interactions and language development in children born during or just before the pandemic. Many studies have been conducted globally on this topic, providing valuable insights into the effects of the pandemic on children’s language development. The importance of early social interactions and the need to detect at-risk situations for children’s development as early as possible are some of the key findings of these studies.
Impact on Spanish children
Research on Spanish children aged 18 to 31 months found that those born during the pandemic showed slower language development compared to those born before it. Specifically, they used fewer distinct words and had a smaller vocabulary. Social relationships and limited interaction contexts during the pandemic, along with the use of masks, have been identified as factors that may have influenced language development.
UK children are falling behind
In the UK, research by Oxford University Press (OUP) has shown that a growing number of children are falling behind in developing their English vocabulary due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Feedback from parents, carers and teachers suggests that around 40% of children have delayed vocabulary development. School closures and disruptions during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak have contributed to a widening vocabulary gap, with both teachers and parents looking to schools to work with parents to address this issue. In response, OUP Press is expanding its Raise a Reader initiative to support children’s literacy in the wake of the pandemic.
Global influence on language evolution
More broadly, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected language development in children, especially those born or raised during lockdown. Limited social interactions and linguistic stimuli during the pandemic have slowed language development in children. These children have smaller vocabularies and are less able to produce complex sentences than those born before the pandemic. This poses a significant risk to the most vulnerable children, who are more at risk of developmental difficulties. Hence, early detection of at-risk cases is crucial.
Effects of lockdown on language skills
Children born or raised during lockdown are developing their language skills at a slower rate due to limited social interactions, reduced exposure to diverse language environments, increased screen time, and the stress and anxiety experienced by parents. However, it is important to note that children are resilient and adaptable with appropriate support and interventions. Therefore, strategies to support language development should include prioritizing well-being, creating a nurturing environment, and providing necessary support.
Implications for children with special educational needs (SEN)
Moreover, the pandemic has shown varying impacts on children with special needs. In Hong Kong, preschool children with learning difficulties showed improvements in emotional and behavioral functioning when schools resumed after COVID-19 closures. However, older children with special educational needs and children with intellectual disabilities experienced more emotional and behavioral difficulties and poorer quality of life after school reopened. This suggests that vulnerable groups may need additional support in the school environment.
Unique Contexts: The Case of East Jerusalem
In the unique context of East Jerusalem, school and learning conditions for students during the COVID-19 pandemic were found to be worse than before. Environment and personal factors have greatly influenced the teaching and learning of children and adolescents during the pandemic. This highlights the need for social and educational support, especially in politically unstable contexts.
In conclusion, while the COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly impacted children’s language development, it is crucial to remember that with the right support and interventions, children can adapt and overcome these challenges. As we move forward, it is essential to continue to monitor the situation, provide support when needed, and strive to minimize the impact of the pandemic on our children’s development.
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about significant changes in the daily lives of children around the world, with widespread disruptions to their education, social interactions, and access to support services. As a result, there is growing concern about the potential impact of the pandemic on children’s language development. Global studies have sought to shed light on the challenges and opportunities that have emerged for young learners, providing valuable insights into the evolving landscape of language acquisition in the midst of a public health crisis. This article will explore the findings from these studies and consider the implications for supporting children’s language development in the post-pandemic era.