We must be very careful when taking or snatching a phone from children. It is important not to take the phone away suddenly, as they may be deeply engaged with what they are watching or playing. A sudden interruption can have a significant impact on their brain and emotions.

Instead, parents should first engage the child in conversation or offer a distraction. Once their attention is diverted, the phone can be taken away more smoothly.

A Real Incident as a Cautionary Tale 

One of my friend’s child, a six-year-old boy, was playing a game on a phone. Noticing that he had been on the screen for too long, his father suddenly took the phone away. The child was unprepared for this and reacted by shouting before unexpectedly losing consciousness for a few minutes.

When he regained consciousness, he had lost sensation in half of his body—it was a case of sudden paralysis. Now, even after 1.5 years, he is still in the process of recovery. His mother takes him to school daily and attends classes with him to support his learning.

Key Takeaways for Parents

• Avoid sudden phone snatching. Instead, gradually transition the child away from the screen.

• Use gentle reminders like, “Five more minutes, then it’s time to stop.”

• Engage them in another activity to make the transition easier.

• Be mindful of their emotional state before taking the device.

• Establish a routine so they know when to expect screen breaks.

This incident serves as an important reminder to handle screen time with care. Parents need to create a balanced approach that prioritizes both digital engagement and well-being.