08/07/2026
Why does switching off feel so hard?
When children spend time on highly stimulating screens, their brains receive frequent bursts of dopamine – the chemical involved in motivation, reward and pleasure. Over time, this can make everyday activities feel less rewarding by comparison, which is why switching off can sometimes lead to frustration, boredom or emotional dysregulation.
Understanding what’s happening in the brain helps us move away from seeing it as “bad behaviour” and towards supporting children to develop healthier habits, realistic boundaries and a better balance between screen time and real-world experiences.
Save this post so you can come back to it when you’re wondering why screen transitions feel so challenging. It may also help explain what you’re seeing to family members, schools and other caregivers.