A new study suggests that the delay in kids' social skills development is due to the isolation brought about by the Covid pandemic.

The study by the U.K. government's education authority reveals that kids are still facing challenges with fundamental abilities like writing and communication post-Covid-19 pandemic.

Ofsted published a series of reports on Monday, based on evidence from over 280 inspections and focus groups with their inspectors, which revealed these findings.

In the "early years" group, Ofsted discovered that providers observed delays in young children's speech and language development. Additionally, some providers reported that babies had difficulty responding to basic facial expressions, which they attributed to reduced social interaction during the coronavirus pandemic and associated lockdowns.

Some education providers pointed out that children struggled with confidence in group activities, while toddlers and preschoolers required assistance in learning to share and take turns.

The pandemic has affected young children's physical development, including a delay in babies learning to crawl and walk. Some providers have reported that children have regressed in their independence and self-care skills, prompting them to spend more time with kids on physical activities to help develop gross motor skills.

Though educators noted that the gaps in knowledge among school-aged children were closing compared to the previous semester, they found that children had deficiencies in math, phonics, and writing stamina.

During the U.K.'s lockdowns, the majority of children were educated at home due to the Covid-19 pandemic forcing schools to close.

Educators observed decreased resilience, confidence, and increased anxiety among school children, which remained a concern for their mental health.

Some schools have reported that the pandemic has influenced the subjects that students select to study before high school and pre-college exams, such as GSCEs and A Levels.

Fewer students are choosing to study all of the main sciences, including biology, chemistry, and physics, according to a few schools. One educator believes that lower confidence following lockdowns may be the reason for fewer students choosing to study another language.

One school observed that students were proficient in using touch-screen devices but lacked skills in using desktop computers. As a result, the school has taken measures to enhance students' desktop computer skills.

While children have made progress in catching up on missed lessons, the pandemic has left some lasting difficulties, according to Ofsted Chief Inspector Amanda Spielman.

She expressed concern about the development of younger children, stating that if it is not addressed, it could lead to issues in primary schools in the future.

If students fail math and English in the UK, they could be banned from college loans.