Remote screening of children and speech therapy guidance for caregivers during the pandemic

Child language development arises from the interaction between their biological characteristics and the experiences offered by the environment. Adverse factors in these two major areas can alter their developmental pace, resulting in significant impairments. The aim of this study was to conduct remote screening of children aged 1–4 attended by different Family Health Units in Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, and to guide caregivers on positive behaviors for language enhancement while waiting for these children to be referred for early intervention. Due to the pandemic scenario, an online screening questionnaire based on the Language Development Protocol was developed, and screening of 285 children was conducted through active participant search. The results showed statistical significance in the items "impacts caused by the pandemic" and "interaction with other children." Children who do not attend school also have a higher prevalence of delay compared to those who do. A delay rate of 18.95% was found in the total sample studied. Parents/caregivers were guided and equipped with the language stimulation guide developed by the executing researcher, and the units were flagged for children with delays. The information in this study highlights the significant challenge in defining public policies that can reduce the discrepancies and gaps caused by this pandemic period.