Young Kids Stunted By Covid Curbs

Experts warn restrictions have already had a big impact

- Paul Hutcheon

SCOTTISH Government advisers have raised the alarm over the harm caused to young children by Covid restrictions.

Experts warned of key milestones being missed, parent-and-baby groups staying closed and a rise in obesity for five-year-olds.

Previous lockdowns included school and nursery closures as well as vital services for babies and toddlers being paused.

Members of a Government advisory group on Covid including professors Devi Sridhar and Linda Bauld have revealed concerns.

A minute of a meeting from December 14 showed advisers received an update on the effect of Covid measures on younger kids.

It stated: “It was noted that emerging data is now evidencing some of the predicted wider harms as a result of the pandemic. This included increases in developmental concerns around communication, social, and emotional needs in very young children, with key developmental milestones being missed.

Concern was also expressed over a significant increase in five-year-olds who were reported to be overweight or obese.”

The group also flagged up the importance of face-toface contact for health visitors and family nurses, arguing that virtual sessions made it difficult to recognise child protection issues.

The minute added: “It was noted that some third sector services which support children, young people and families, but particularly young children, have not restarted after lockdown.