Americans have been engaged in a two-year debate about pandemic restrictions, and this debate has been particularly contentious among parents of young children. The consequences of these restrictions for children’s development, especially those with speech and language disorders, are still uncertain but potentially significant and long-lasting. I spoke with parents in various states who expressed concerns about the impact of pandemic measures on their children’s speech therapy.
For example, Megan’s son has Joubert syndrome, a rare genetic condition that often leads to severe speech delays. Before the pandemic, Megan’s son had made progress in speech therapy, but unfortunately, he experienced a regression during remote therapy and is still struggling to catch up now that therapy is in person due to his therapist wearing a face mask. Speech and language disorders can have profound effects if left untreated, such as frustration, behavioral challenges, difficulty making friends, and struggles with reading. Early intervention is crucial, and the longer treatment is delayed, the more difficult it becomes.
Many parents are frustrated that they are being asked to compromise their children’s social and academic lives in the name of public safety. The early years of a child’s life are critical for development, and anything that interferes with this development can feel like a gamble with their future. Parents of children with speech delays, in particular, feel that their odds are not in their favor.
When the pandemic began, speech-language pathologists quickly adapted to teletherapy, which was successful for many clients. However, remote therapy is challenging for young children who may disengage or struggle to participate. It also places a significant burden on parents who are already overwhelmed with work and homeschooling. When in-person therapy resumed, masking requirements presented additional challenges. Speech therapists found that masks were distracting for children and hindered certain therapy techniques that rely on visual cues. Clear masks were attempted but had their own drawbacks, including discomfort and fogging up, which impeded tactile cues and hindered progress.
Problems in speech therapy were further compounded by other difficulties outside of therapy sessions. Many children feel less confident and have more difficulty communicating with masks on. Extended school closures have also increased social anxiety among children, making it harder for them to warm up to therapists. Autistic children, in particular, rely on engagement in therapy, which has been hindered by mask requirements. Some parents and therapists have struggled to obtain accommodations, and the lack of clear masks has been a significant barrier.
While some speech therapists have disregarded mask mandates to continue therapy, many schools do not grant exemptions for speech or language impairments. Parents are often afraid to ask for exemptions, fearing their child will be ostracized. Under these circumstances, some parents have resorted to paying for private therapists willing to use clear face shields. However, finding such therapists can be challenging and costly. Some parents have even had to reduce their work hours to assist their children with speech therapy.
The impact of pandemic restrictions on children with speech delays may vary, but the fundamental challenge for parents of young children remains the same. Early intervention is crucial for healthy development, and the pandemic restrictions feel like an uncertain experiment that could disrupt their children’s progress. Trusting that these measures will not interfere with their children’s development is a daunting task for parents.
For children with Joubert syndrome, timely treatment can make a significant difference in their ability to speak. Before the pandemic, Megan believed her son was on the verge of speaking, but now she is unsure if he will ever reach that milestone. The window of opportunity is closing, and the disruption caused by the pandemic adds to the uncertainty of his progress.
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