Why Do Children Ignore Adults When Using a Computer or Phone?
02.04.2025 07:05
All parents have faced the situation where you call your child, and they don’t respond. As soon as you peek into the room, they are completely absorbed in the screen. Why does this happen, and is it possible to change the situation? Let’s figure it out.
Why doesn't the child hear you?
They are deeply engrossed: When a child is playing a video game or watching a video, their attention is focused on what’s happening on the screen. At that moment, the surrounding world simply “shuts off.”
Digital immersion effect: Bright colors, rapidly changing scenes, and interactive elements create a “digital hypnosis” effect. This makes it harder for the child to shift focus and hear the parent.
Time perception shift: When the child is with a gadget, they don’t notice how quickly time flies. What seems like a minute to them actually lasts much longer.
What should parents do?
Don’t shout from another room: Approach them, establish eye contact, touch their shoulder, and only then speak.
Set clear boundaries: Agree on rules, such as “When we call you, you pay attention right away and respond.” Explain that ignoring will lead to a restriction on screen time.
Use reminders: A timer can help the child prepare in advance that screen time is coming to an end. You can also set an alarm.
Offer alternatives: Pre-suggest interesting activities, such as going for a walk, playing board games, or taking a trip.
Set an example: When the child sees that the parents are also “stuck” on their phones and don’t respond right away, they will copy this behavior, making it harder for you to explain the reason for your request.
The child is not doing this on purpose – they are simply too engrossed in content. The key is to establish clear rules, offer alternative ways to spend time, and, of course, set a personal example. Then, the problem will gradually resolve itself.