Study Reveals Decline in Preschool Social Skills Post-Pandemic

A recent study by researchers at UC Merced reveals a significant decline in social skills among preschool children due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Earth.com reported.

The research, led by Professor Rose Scott, found that children’s ability to understand false beliefs—a key component of social cognition—dropped dramatically after lockdowns. Before the pandemic, 80% of 5-year-olds passed false-belief tests; this rate fell to just 63% afterward, with only 51% success among children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds.

The study highlights how disruptions in daily routines, such as daycare closures and limited social interactions, have affected children’s cognitive development. Professor Scott noted that these deficits may have lasting implications, particularly for disadvantaged children. As schools and families work to recover, prioritizing early childhood development is crucial to help children regain essential social skills. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to support the cognitive growth of preschoolers, especially those from lower-income households. The study is published in Scientific Reports.