The number of Hong Kong children with speech-related problems rose significantly during the Covid-19 pandemic as mask-wearing became mandatory and schools were closed for extended periods.

Experts said children were affected when they could not see how others, including teachers, moved their mouths while speaking because everyone was masked.

Some also had difficulty hearing how words were pronounced during online lessons.

Children also spoke less while wearing masks and missed out on talking with their schoolmates.

Now, to encourage pupils to start speaking more, one primary school has extended its break periods to give children more time to mix with friends.

Statistics showed the number diagnosed with speech development problems fell last year, when children returned to school for in-person classes.