Listen: ABC's Alex Stone
We’ve known for a while that the pandemic has had a lasting impacting on children and their academic performance. But experts are citing new data showing the pandemic has hindered the learning and development of the youngest Americans. Things as simple as holding a pencil, opening a carton of milk, tying shoes, and social skills were all hindered by being away from others during the most critical period of development. Many are now entering school lagging in the basics like being able to identify shapes and letters or being potty trained.