Wondering if your kids are spending too much time in front of the tube? Worried about what they‘re being exposed to? Here I recommend an article you may find helpful.
I’m careful about what programs my children watch. Actually, that’s an understatement. I'm extremely careful about what they watch! I visit Movie Mom’s website when new children’s movies hit the theater because I know she‘ll address my concerns about language, sexual content, and violence. I’m more concerned with whether or not it’s appropriate for my children than I am with whether or not she liked the film.
As with movies, I feel that some television shows certainly have value, and those are the programs my little ones are allowed to view. For example, Curious George on PBS and Go, Diego, Go! on Nick Jr. are excellent programs that both my children enjoy. While I can see what’s good in children’s television, what’s not so good is also clear. Shows in which characters use foul language, act out violently, and are mean-spirited are absolutely not suitable for my children.
In addition to my concerns about content, I feel that excessive television viewing is contributing to childhood obesity. I encourage my children to engage in active play by taking them to the park, playing games with them, and enrolling them in organized sports.
Peggy Small-Porter, director of a children’s center in New Hampshire, explores the topic of children and television in Curbing TV Time for Tots. In the article, she shares related statistics along with suggested guidelines for concerned parents.
I hope you’ll also check out my related blog on TV-Free Fun and my article on Children and Television.
