What is Lockdown's Impact on Children's Language Development?
Updated: Aug 25
In this article we will discuss:
In this new episode with Autism Family Resource, we discuss a deeper understanding of language development and the impact of lockdown and COVID-19 on children and families. Discover actionable insights on addressing speech delays caused by these challenges.
Listen to the podcast using one of the players below:
Episode highlights:
We are not born with understanding language. We need to have that exposure in order to understand the language that's in our environment. And language exposure, especially rich language environments, are a wonderful thing. And what happened with lockdowns is that we were not able to provide that to children.
With children, they need to be a part of that environment to understand what's going on and to see how people are interacting to really understand.
These are all ways that we're using language and these are ways that language is being shared. With lockdown, what happened was these children were developing and their brains were developing, but they weren't getting this exposure. And now we're seeing this very significant language development delay, as in children don't necessarily understand facial expression.
Address Lockdown's Impact on Children's Language Development
These children, whether they are diagnosed with autism, whether they are typically developing, whether they're neurotypically developing, whatever they are, it is our responsibility as the community, as people of this world, to help them communicate because they did have this massive gap of time and it wasn't their fault.
If you're a parent or guardian with concerns, it's never too late to seek help. At Better Speech, our online therapy services are designed for your convenience and customized to meet your child's unique needs. Our solutions are both affordable and highly effective. Get Better speech now.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did lockdown actually delay children's speech and language development?
Yes, research suggests many children experienced delays during lockdown. Reduced social interaction, fewer playdates, limited time with extended family, and increased screen time all contributed to slower language growth. Children learn language best through face-to-face conversation and play, both of which were significantly restricted during the pandemic years.
How can I tell if my child's language delay is related to lockdown or something more serious?
Common signs worth monitoring include limited vocabulary for their age, difficulty forming sentences, or trouble being understood by others. A licensed speech-language pathologist can assess your child and identify whether the delay is situational or requires targeted support. Better Speech offers licensed, insurance-ready care with no waitlists, so you can get answers quickly without a long wait.
Are children who were babies or toddlers during lockdown most affected?
Children aged zero to three were particularly vulnerable because those years are a critical window for language acquisition. Reduced exposure to varied voices, social settings, and interactive play during this period had a measurable impact on many children's communication skills. The good news is that early intervention can make a significant positive difference in catching children up.
What can parents do at home to help close language gaps caused by lockdown?
Reading aloud daily, narrating everyday activities, and encouraging back-and-forth conversation are all practical strategies that genuinely help. Limiting passive screen time and replacing it with interactive play also supports language growth. Even small consistent habits, like talking through a grocery shop or asking open-ended questions, build vocabulary and confidence over time.
Is it too late to help a school-age child who missed out on early language experiences during lockdown?
It is never too late to support a child's language development. The brain remains highly adaptable throughout childhood, and targeted speech therapy can produce strong results even in older children. Working with a speech-language pathologist alongside consistent practice at home gives children the structured support they need to build skills and confidence at any age.
About the Author
Aycen Zambuto
I’m a seasoned educator in speech therapy with over six years of experience helping people navigate challenges in communication. Throughout this time, I’ve found joy in guiding individuals through a variety of therapeutic journeys, from toddlers with apraxia to seniors with dysphonia.
I’m passionate about demystifying this complex world of speech therapy and helping readers around the globe achieve clear and effective communication. When I’m not writing about speech, you’ll often find me reading, traveling or spending time with friends and family.
