Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Early Identification of Developmental Delays

The COVID-19 pandemic in the USA has had many unexpected consequences. For prekindergarten children, the pandemic has had a notably negative impact on the early identification of Global Developmental Delays (GDDs) in basic developmental areas (physical, cognitive, communication, social, emotional, daily living skills, and/or behavioral skills). Early identification often takes place in physician’s offices and preschools. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, research indicates children have had fewer physicians’ visits, particularly to pediatricians. Moreover, many parents have opted not to send their children to daycare or preschool. As a result, medical personnel and preschool staff have not had direct contact with prekindergarten children in order to identify GDDs in children’s early years.

This intermediate level course is comprised of a single article. The purpose of this course is to (1) explore how the pandemic has impacted the early identification of GDDs and (2) propose ways in which Mental Health Providers (MHPs) may help address the early identification gap. References are provided to sites clinicians can access to download forms, checklists, and other information to assist in diagnosis and helping families.