A significant study led by the University of Edinburgh has established a connection between the Covid-19 lockdown measures implemented in Scotland and a rise in developmental concerns among toddlers.
Key Findings from the Landmark Study
Researchers analysed data from nearly 258,000 children, representing more than 80 per cent of Scottish youngsters in two key age groups. The children were aged between 13-15 months and 27-30 months, and their development was tracked from January 2019 to August 2023.
The investigation specifically measured the relationship between lockdown restrictions and developmental issues flagged by health visitors. It found that problems with communication, problem solving, and fine-motor skills were notably higher than the levels recorded before the pandemic.
A Measurable Increase in Developmental Concerns
The data reveals a clear and concerning trend. Between March 2020 and August 2021, a period covering the strictest social distancing rules, there was a 6.6 percentage point increase in the proportion of children identified with at least one developmental concern.
In their report, published in The Lancet Regional Health – Europe, the research team stated that the measures to control infections, while necessary for public health, 'also appear to have been associated with increased early childhood development concerns'.
Implications for Future Pandemic Planning
The study's authors are urging policymakers to consider these impacts when planning for future public health emergencies. Researcher Dr Iain Hardie highlighted the direct association, while Professor Bonnie Auyeung expressed hope that the work will help shape support for the 'Covid-19 era' children in the years to come.
These findings emerge just as the UK Covid-19 Inquiry has been critically examining the lockdown decisions made by the then First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon. The research adds a crucial dimension to the ongoing debate about the wider consequences of pandemic restrictions.
