Date of Defense
6-26-2026
Date of Graduation
6-2026
Department
Family and Consumer Sciences
First Advisor
Lucy Parrott
Second Advisor
Anthony Helms
Abstract
As the world has adjusted to times post-COVID, one thing that has caught the attention of professionals is a shift in speech language development in young children. Since COVID, more children are receiving speech and language services and diagnosed with SLI (speech and language impairment). This study investigates the reason for the shift, as well as strategies and services that can be used to adjust to these changes in numbers. The research for this project was conducted through anecdotal notes, personal research and observations. Information was collected over a number of years after COVID, from 2021-2026. This information when compiled showed a clear increase in the number of children eligible for speech and language services and diagnosed with speech and language impairments. Along with this, many new and changed methods of services were introduced by educators and service providers. The hope for this research is that it will contribute to positive changes in how professionals handle speech and language development in young children now and in the future, following the changes and challenges as a result of COVID.
Recommended Citation
Coy, Shenda, "Post-Covid SLI in Preschoolers: A Look at Changes in Speech and Language Impairments in Preschool-Aged Children in a Post-Covid Environment." (2026). Honors Theses. 4115.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/honors_theses/4115
Access Setting
Honors Thesis-Open Access
Presentation