What subtle signs show my child is feeling emotionally disconnected when I am multitasking on devices? 

Parenting Perspective 

When your attention is split between your child and a device, the signs of emotional disconnection can be quiet and easy to miss. Rather than big emotional displays, you might notice your child giving shorter responses to your questions, no longer sharing small details about their day, or choosing to play alone more often. They might hover nearby without speaking, hoping to be noticed, or sometimes use exaggerated behaviour, like a sudden loud laugh, in an attempt to pull your focus away from the screen. 

Shifts in Engagement and Eye Contact 

If your child frequently looks towards you only to find your gaze is elsewhere, they may eventually stop trying to make eye contact. This subtle withdrawal is a significant indicator that they are beginning to feel you are not emotionally available to them in that moment. 

Changes in Play and Initiative 

A child who used to eagerly ask you to join their games might stop extending those invitations, assuming you are too busy. Over time, this can disrupt the natural flow of connection, making it more difficult to re-engage and share those moments together. 

These cues are signals to pause your multitasking, even for just a moment, and give your child direct acknowledgment. A simple, warm response can be all it takes to reaffirm your connection. 

Spiritual Insight 

Our faith teaches us to value our relationships by giving each one its due right, a core part of which is offering our full and undivided attention. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Mu’minoon (23), Verse 8: 

‘And those people who are responsible in the execution of all matters entrusted to them and promised by them…’ 

This verse serves as a powerful reminder that parenting is a sacred trust (amanah) from Allah Almighty. Being attentive to our children is a fundamental part of fulfilling that divine responsibility. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 2319, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘He who does not show mercy to our children is not one of us.’ 

This teaches us that mercy extends beyond physical care and provision; it includes the compassion of offering our focused attention, especially when our children are trying to connect with us. 

By tuning into these subtle signals and responding with your presence, you safeguard your child’s profound need to feel valued, seen, and secure in your love.