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It’s a common complaint that today’s kids watch too much TV. While the time spent on watching television is definitely a concern, an equally important issue is the television content and programs that today’s children are exposed to. The question is, are they watching the right programs?

Parents Need to Take Charge of Television

With most households owning at least one television set, and the commercial cable system offering a large number of channels broadcasting content of all genres and ratings, it isn’t always easy to control what your kids watch. However, it is crucial that parents take charge of television and decide what is appropriate for their children, and what is not.

Although there are people who prefer self-regulation by television channels or the government moving forth on the issue, it is an inescapable fact that parents, more than anyone else, are the key to ensuring that children are not exposed to negative influences.

However, there are practical ways of doing so without relegating the TV set to the attic. Instead of completely eliminating TV viewing, a balanced approach of regulating both the time spent on TV and the content viewed is advisable.

Limit television for preschoolers

Children are naturally drawn to sounds, colorful images and motion pictures. A little of this in moderation is actually healthy for the child’s mind. But if your toddler is spending a large part of his day on TV, it’s time to wean him or her out of the habit. Engage the child in activities beneficial to his physical and mental development.

TV can also be an exciting tool for learning and intellectual development. This calls for wise utilization of the powers of the media while screening out inappropriate or unacceptable content. Preschoolers, in particular, should be involved in vigorous exercise and creative activities since TV viewing can quickly grow into a habit of passivity.

Monitor television use by school-age children

As your child grows older, you should inculcate a sense of discretion so your child makes conscious decisions on what’s good and what’s not. Outright censorship of programs may not work effectively since it makes the show exotic and all the more appealing. Instead, make it a habit to discuss what your kids have seen so you can give a sub-conscious education about

Why Parents Should Worry

There are multiple ways that television can prove harmful for the child. Besides the risk of shortening attention spans, thanks to the rapidly changing scenes on TV, the child is exposed to violence and inappropriate material on television. Prolonged exposure to graphic or violent scenes can make children anxious or fearful and give them wrong notions about the world.

It is necessary that parents send out strong signals from the very beginning about what is acceptable and what is not, so the child grows up with a healthy dosage of TV viewing uncomplainingly.