Imagine being a child growing up in a world that suddenly paused. No school bells ringing, no playdates at the park, no group storytelling sessions—just screens, isolation, and an unfamiliar routine. The COVID-19 pandemic reshaped childhood in ways we are only beginning to understand, and for many young learners, the effects have been profound.
Studies reveal that children born or raised during the pandemic have faced significant developmental challenges. For instance, infants born during the pandemic exhibited a decline of 27–37 points in cognitive performance compared to pre-pandemic cohorts, with verbal and non-verbal skills being particularly affected. Preschool-aged children also experienced mixed outcomes; while some showed improved problem-solving skills, others faced declines in personal-social abilities due to prolonged social isolation and daycare closures during multiple lockdowns.
But the good news? The brain is adaptable, and with the right approach, children can regain lost skills and even thrive. The key lies in understanding these challenges and taking active steps to nurture their growing minds. In this blog, we will discuss how to address these challenges.
The Post-Pandemic Cognitive Development Crisis
Research has shown that the pandemic has had a notable impact on early childhood development. According to a study published in The BMJ, children born during the pandemic exhibited lower cognitive scores compared to pre-pandemic generations. Children lack fine and gross motor skills, and their emotional intelligence is also affected significantly, resulting in difficulty understanding social cues and increased anxiety. The lack of socialization, reduced playtime, increased screen exposure, and disruptions in structured learning are some of the factors that have contributed to this situation.
Factors that Hampered a Child’s Development During the Pandemic
Several factors contributed to the cognitive delays observed in children during and after the pandemic:
1. Increased Screen Time & Passive Learning
With limited access to preschools and playgroups, children spent more time engaging with digital content rather than interactive, hands-on activities. While screens can be educational, excessive passive consumption limits creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills
2. Limited Peer Interaction
Social interaction is key to childhood development. The pandemic forced children to stay home, reducing opportunities to develop empathy, conflict resolution, and communication skills through peer interactions.
3. Interrupted Learning & Lack of Routine
A structured learning environment is vital for cognitive development. Many children had their education disrupted, and even those in virtual classrooms faced difficulties in engagement and retention.
4. Parental Stress & Mental Health
The pandemic was challenging for parents as well. Increased stress, financial struggles, and emotional exhaustion affected the quality of interaction and engagement with children, further impacting their cognitive growth.
How i-Maths Supports Cognitive Growth in the Post-Pandemic Era
While the challenges are real, the good news is that children are incredibly resilient. With the right support and exposure to interactive learning experiences, they can overcome developmental setbacks. This is where i-Maths steps in to provide engaging, hands-on, and cognitive-stimulating programs for young learners.
1. Active Learning for Cognitive Stimulation
Unlike passive screen-based learning, i-Maths programs focus on active learning that’s incredibly powerful. It encourages children to think, explore, and apply their knowledge. Activities that involve problem-solving, reasoning, and logical thinking help strengthen cognitive abilities.
2. Innovative Educational Practices
Traditional learning methods are no longer sufficient to bridge post-pandemic cognitive gaps. i-Maths incorporates innovative teaching strategies like hands-on activities, puzzles, and interactive math challenges that enhance cognitive flexibility and adaptability.
3. Enhancing Spatial and Logical Thinking
To strengthen problem-solving skills, i-Maths engages children with Tangrams—an interactive puzzle-based learning method that enhances spatial awareness, pattern recognition, and creativity. By arranging geometric pieces to form various shapes, children develop logical reasoning and visual-spatial skills, which are crucial for early cognitive growth. This hands-on approach not only sharpens their ability to recognize patterns and solve complex problems but also makes learning an enjoyable and engaging process
4. Building Social and Emotional Intelligence
Cognitive growth is deeply tied to emotional and social intelligence. Through group activities, interactive storytelling, and hands-on learning, i-Maths helps children improve communication skills, emotional regulation, and collaboration.
5. Encouraging Consistent Engagement with Structured Programs
One of the key aspects of overcoming developmental delays is consistency. i-Maths provides structured preschool programs that ensure children stay engaged in a balanced mix of learning and play.
How Parents Can Help Improve a Child’s Cognitive Development
While enrolling children in structured learning programs like i-Maths is a great step, parents can also contribute to cognitive growth through:
- Daily reading or story sessions to expand vocabulary and comprehension.
- Encouraging hands-on activities like puzzles, building blocks, and creative play.
- Limiting screen time and instead encouraging them to engage in learning activities or include them in chores (baking or organising). These experiences will give them a sense of independence and confidence.
- Providing opportunities for peer interaction through playdates or group activities.
- Ensuring a consistent routine with designated learning, play, and rest times.
- Engaging in meaningful conversations with children to enhance their communication skills.
- Using real-world problem-solving situations to develop their reasoning and analytical thinking.
- Encouraging physical activities such as outdoor games or simple exercises to improve motor skills and overall well-being.
The Role of Early Learning Centers in Post-Pandemic Recovery
Early learning centers like i-Maths play a crucial role in bridging the cognitive gaps caused by the pandemic. They provide children with a structured yet engaging environment where they can develop essential skills, regain lost learning, and build confidence in their abilities. The hands-on learning approach ensures that children remain active participants in their educational journey rather than passive recipients of information.
The post-pandemic era has presented challenges, but it has also highlighted the importance of early childhood cognitive development. With the right tools, resources, and proactive engagement, children can recover lost learning experiences and build a strong foundation for future success.
How Can i-Maths Help?
i-Maths is committed to helping parents navigate this journey by offering structured, engaging, and effective learning programs tailored to boost cognitive skills in children. Take the first step towards empowering your child’s mind by filling out our enrollment forms today.
For more information, visit i-Maths Canada and discover how we make learning fun, interactive, and impactful!