Picture this: You’re finally on the phone with your doctor’s office, trying to reschedule that overdue appointment. Your preschooler, who up until now has been blissfully ignoring you, suddenly NEEDS to tell you about the biggest, scariest spider in the history of spiders… which turns out to be a dust bunny. You try the universal mom move, the index finger “just a sec” signal, but your child takes this as a sign to increase their volume by 500%. Sound familiar?
If you’re nodding along, welcome to the club. Preschoolers have an incredible talent for sensing when you need a moment of peace and using that exact moment to launch into a monologue about their stuffed animal’s favorite color. But don’t worry! There’s hope. Here are six brilliant strategies to help curb those constant interruptions while keeping your sanity intact.
1. Teach the Magic Touch
Kids love a little mystery and magic, so introduce them to the “magic touch.” Here’s how it works: When they need your attention while you’re talking to someone else, they gently place their hand on your arm. You acknowledge them with a quick hand squeeze to let them know you see them, and they wait patiently until you can respond. (Okay, patience is a stretch, but with practice, it works!)
2. Make a Special “Mommy’s Busy” Activity Box
Ever notice how preschoolers only seem to want your attention when you’re busy? Use this to your advantage! Create a special box filled with quiet-time activities, puzzles, coloring books, sticker sheets, things they ONLY get when you’re on the phone or in a conversation. Suddenly, your grocery order call is the best part of their day.
3. Use a Secret Signal
Preschoolers LOVE feeling like they’re in on a secret. Establish a special signal just for the two of you, maybe a wink, a thumbs-up, or touching your nose, to let them know you see them and will be with them soon. It makes them feel acknowledged without them needing to shout, “MOM, MOM, MOM!” twenty times in a row.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice
Before heading into a situation where interruptions might happen (like a phone call or a conversation with another adult), do a quick practice round. Role-play with a stuffed animal or sibling, showing your child what they should do instead of interrupting. Reward successful attempts with praise or a high-five.
5. Give Them Their Own “Call” to Make
If they always interrupt when you’re on the phone, hand them a play phone or an old cell phone and encourage them to have their own “important” conversation. Suddenly, they’re too busy chatting with Grandma’s imaginary twin to interrupt yours.
6. Fill Their Attention Tank First
Preschoolers often interrupt because they feel ignored or need connection. Before making your call or starting an adult conversation, spend five to ten minutes giving them undivided attention. Read a quick book, play a silly game, or ask about their favorite part of the day. A full attention tank means they’ll be less desperate to steal yours later.
Final Thoughts
Your preschooler interrupting isn’t a sign that you’re failing as a parent, it’s a sign that they’re developmentally right on track. But with a few clever tricks, a little patience, and a sense of humor, you can teach them how to wait their turn without completely losing your mind.
Now, go enjoy your (hopefully) uninterrupted coffee! Or at least half of it before someone yells, “MOM, LOOK AT THIS!”