Russian government official Ekaterina Larina stated at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation media forum that children are increasingly receiving gadgets before books. Larina, Director of the Department for Development of Mass Communications and International Cooperation of the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of the Russian Federation, highlighted this trend as a concern. The statement suggests a shift in children’s engagement with technology versus traditional reading materials. This observation was made during a discussion on media consumption and its impact on younger generations. No specific data or studies were cited to support the claim, but it reflects a broader societal discussion about the influence of digital devices on child development. The official’s comments underscore potential implications for literacy and cultural engagement among Russian youth.