Early childhood centres are stretched as they deal with more children with learning and behavioural challenges.  

The Educational Institute says the increase has meant waiting lists for specialist support are far too long.  

It's thought there could be a connection between the issue and children experiencing Covid lockdowns early in life.  

Speech and language therapist Conor Fraser told Mike Hosking that the services have been stretched for a long time.  

She says this year, there's been a 20% vacancy in special education roles. 

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