The piece reflects on a concept presented in a New York Times article that links excessive cellphone use to symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adolescents. The author emphasizes the challenge faced by children diagnosed with attention disorders who, despite receiving accommodations at school, struggle to adapt to real-life situations outside the classroom. These children often find it difficult to engage with their peers and follow simple instructions after being detached from their electronic devices.

Additionally, the article critiques the role of parents in exacerbating this issue. It suggests that, in moments of boredom, parents tend to give their children screens as a distraction, inadvertently introducing a harmful dependency at an early age. This situation creates a paradox where electronic devices, initially perceived as tools to aid children's education and entertainment, become a silent enemy that undermines their developmental abilities and social interactions.

Ultimately, the author calls for a reconsideration of how much access children have to these devices. It highlights the importance of fostering environments that promote attention and engagement in children, which may require parents and caregivers to rethink their strategies regarding technology use in their households, especially in young children.