Speech and language development in children born during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

This study contributes to the ongoing research related to the impact of COVID-19 on speech and language development in children. Notably, no research has been conducted in Malta to explore these implications for children born during this period. The study's objectives include identifying challenges in speech and language development during the COVID-19 period, exploring correlations with language exposure factors, socioeconomic status (SES), siblings, as well as identifying social interactions and patterns in routine and screen time among children born between March 2020 and March 2022 in the Maltese Islands. A questionnaire to caregivers of children born within the specified timeframe, residing in Malta or Gozo, was self-constructed, validated and circulated through social media. The number of valid responses was 115. The caregivers were also invited to participate in a focus group. A total of 13 individuals participated in the focus group interview within the University clinic. The quantitative data obtained from online questionnaires were analysed using the Pearson Chi-Squared Test. Quantitative analysis revealed that despite pandemic restrictions, children had varied opportunities for social interaction, particularly with grandparents. The study found no significant correlation between speech and language development and variables such as maternal education, birth order, gender, or language exposure. However, it indicated that children born early in the pandemic were more impacted than those born later. Qualitative data revealed six key themes: 1) the impact of COVID-19 on language and communication, 2) the broader impact of COVID-19, 3) opportunities for social interaction, 4) the emotional and psychological well-being of caregivers, 5) the role of screen time, and 6) routines and the child’s environment. Quantitative and qualitative data exhibit alignment, yet discrepancies also emerged. The findings of this study aid SLPs in better understanding the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the speech and language development of children born during unprecedented times within the local context. While shedding light on the specific impact of COVID-19 on speech and language development within the local context, it is acknowledged that more extensive participant recruitment in both the questionnaire and focus group would have been beneficial. This research paves the way for future studies, including investigations into the long-term effects of the pandemic on speech and language development.