Why can't the child listen? What should we do

Children's inability to listen may be related to factors such as scattered attention, improper communication methods, emotional resistance, insufficient language comprehension ability, and listening problems. This can be improved through adjusting communication strategies, establishing rules, improving the family environment, professional evaluation, patient guidance, and other methods.

1. Attention span

Young children's brain development is not yet fully developed and is easily disturbed by external stimuli. Parents need to reduce environmental interference sources, such as turning off the TV or putting away toys, squatting down to communicate with their children at eye level, and using short and clear instructions. To avoid forcibly interrupting when the child is busy or engrossed in the game, observe their activity rhythm first and choose a natural pause to intervene.

2. Improper communication methods

Command based language can easily trigger rebellious psychology. Suggest using specific behavioral instructions instead of negative statements, such as changing 'don't run' to 'let's walk slowly'. Combined with body language and visual cues, picture books or images can be used to assist preschool children in understanding. Important matters need to be confirmed with the child's eye contact before conveying.

3. Emotional Resistance

When a child is hungry, tired, or emotionally excited, the efficiency of auditory information reception decreases. Parents should prioritize basic physiological needs and calm their emotions through physical contact such as hugs. For situations where there is resistance to commands, providing limited options is more effective than mandatory requirements, such as "Do you pack your toys now or in five minutes.

4. Insufficient language comprehension

Children under 3 years old have limited understanding of complex sentences or abstract concepts. Instructions need to be broken down into a single step to avoid conjunctions and metaphors. You can demonstrate actions with language guidance, such as saying "put the building blocks here" while demonstrating. Regularly conduct language development screening to eliminate expressive language barriers and other situations.

5. Hearing problems

Repeated calls without response require screening for conductive hearing loss or secretory otitis media. Observe the child's response to distant whispered commands and check for accompanying symptoms such as ear scratching and delayed language development. Otolaryngologists can evaluate hearing function through acoustic impedance testing, and timely intervention can prevent language development delay. Establishing a regular daily rhythm can help improve children's cooperation, and a fixed schedule can form behavioral expectations. Interweaving Q&A interactions during parent-child reading can exercise listening skills and avoid complex command communication after meals or before bedtime. If there is still difficulty in listening after adjusting the communication method, it is recommended to conduct a comprehensive evaluation with a child psychologist and education expert to rule out developmental behavioral problems such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Provide positive feedback in daily communication, and give specific praise to children immediately after completing simple instructions, gradually strengthening positive behavior patterns.