Ever wondered why your child doesn’t respond to you when you call out their name? Oftentimes, it could be a sign of growing up, but other times, it could be a sign of developmental delay. Let us look at some reasons for this behaviour and how you can respond to them as a parent.
Why might a child not respond to their name, and when should it be a concern?
There could be many reasons behind the same. Firstly, it would be important to rule out any hearing deficits. Once that has been ruled out, check whether they are surrounded by other children. Children can be easily distracted while playing or when they are watching TV, or on their phones. Children with social anxiety may purposely avoid hearing their name to avoid social interaction.
Another possible reason apart from this can be Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or other neurodevelopmental disorders. Speech or motor disorders can be another reason, too.
How to make your child respond to their name?
Let us look at some methods to make your child respond to their name:
Avoid overusing your child’s name: Yes, that is correct! If the child hears their name often, they can tune out and stop responding. Similarly, using their name repeatedly while scolding them or in an angry tone can make them think about their name negatively, and they might stop responding to their name altogether.
Try calling out their name in an isolated setting: Children can often be engrossed in playing with other kids or in electronic devices. In such situations, try calling out their name in an isolated environment when no one is around and check whether they respond.
Use positive reinforcement: Call your child patiently and calmly. If they do respond, reward them with positive reinforcement like their favourite toys or foods.
Use a different tone of voice: As mentioned before, calling a child’s name angrily can make them avoid responding to you. Try calling them out softly or in a melodic, sing-song manner! This might make them curious enough to respond.
Avoid using multiple names: If a child has multiple names (pet names, for instance), they can get confused. Call them by one name and ensure that others coming in contact with the child do the same.
When should a child begin responding to their name?
This can vary. A child should begin responding to their name by 4-10 months of age, but some children may start responding later by 1-2 years as well.
Who should I consult if my child doesn’t respond to their name?
If your child does not respond even after repeated attempts, then it might be time to show them to a pediatrician. A child specialist can help diagnose problems and choose the right methods to resolve them as well. Every child can grow and blossom at their own pace. Just a little love, patience, and support can help your little star go a long way!
