Teachers alarmed as kids struggle with basic skills in schools

Teachers in Wales and England are raising concerns about a significant decline in school readiness among reception-aged children, with many arriving at school unable to perform basic tasks such as climbing stairs, using books properly, and being toilet trained.

A recent survey revealed that excessive screen time during the pandemic has contributed to poor muscle development and delays in other motor skills among young children.

In Blaenau Gwent, a local authority in Wales, parents are now required to come in and change their children’s nappies if they start school without being potty trained.

The policy follows complaints from school staff that the time spent changing diapers is affecting both teaching and learning time.

Some teachers participating in the survey expressed that the "Covid baby" explanation for these delays has become less convincing, with many attributing the issues to broader parenting challenges.

The survey, conducted by research group Savanta for early years charity Kindred, found that nearly half of the 1,000 teachers surveyed reported a further decline in school readiness over the past year.

Around one in four children entering reception classes last September were not potty trained, and many others showed signs of poor motor skills and underdeveloped muscles—issues believed to be linked to excessive screen exposure.

Teachers also observed clumsiness, delayed walking, and the use of Americanisms among students, with children picking up these phrases and behaviors from time spent online.

While teachers acknowledged the impact of pandemic lockdowns, some argued that the issue extends beyond Covid-19.

One senior teacher stated, “There’s only so long you can blame Covid for that. I’m sorry, but a lot of it comes down to parenting as well.”

A separate survey of 1,000 parents revealed that less than half (44%) believed children should know how to properly use books before starting school, including turning pages rather than swiping or tapping like on a digital device.

However, three in four parents agreed that toilet training should be a requirement before entering reception classes.

Despite these concerns, there is a clear disconnect between parents’ and teachers’ assessments of children’s readiness. While 90% of parents believed their children were ready for school, only one in three teachers agreed.

Both groups cited limited access to health visitors as a contributing factor, with teachers noting that the ongoing cost of living crisis has left many parents focused on work rather than spending quality time with their children to develop essential skills.

Tiffnie Harris from the Association of School and College Leaders emphasized that many parents are struggling financially and lack adequate support.

In response to Blaenau Gwent's new policy, Laura Doel, national secretary of NAHT Cymru, welcomed the intervention, pointing out that school leaders have been reporting that children are not meeting key milestones, including self-care needs.

She stressed the importance of providing additional support for children with special needs and working closely with local authorities to ensure all children receive the help they need.

As the school year continues, educators and parents are grappling with the long-term effects of the pandemic on children's development.

The focus is on addressing these delays and ensuring children are prepared for the challenges of school life, with teachers noting troubling signs such as the rise of Americanisms and other screen-induced behaviors.