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He doesn't
advocate a complete TV ban. Rather, young kids should be limited to a
maximum total of one hour a day -- two hours if they're older -- of
entertainment-related electronic devices such as TV, computer or video
games.
Kids should not have a set in their bedrooms, he says. But
many do. Recent research found nearly 40% of North American low-income
kids between the ages of one and four had a television in their bedroom.
Those kids were most likely to be overweight. Having a TV in the bedroom
also makes it difficult for parents to supervise content being watched.
There are definite negatives about television, such as many
commercials and inappropriate content, including violence.
However, it can also be excellent. Quality programs, including
Sesame Street and Blue's Clues, teach valuable life skills, says Nieman.
It's important for parents to screen what their kids are watching.
Gliener and her husband know their sons' viewing choices during their
weekly exposure.
So will the family ever make space for a TV in
their home again? Yes, but not for several years.
"Jesse will have
to be at least 10 before we bring back a TV," said Gliener. "This is a
really, really influential time, a lot of habits develop in these
formative years.
"We want to wait."
Good Television habits
The Canadian Pediatric
Society and Calgary pediatrician Peter Nieman offer these tips to
promote good family television habits:
TUNE IN: Know the programs your kids watch. Make sure the
shows are not violent, sexual and are free of offensive language.
BABYSITTER: Television is not a free babysitter. When
your kids are cleared to watch a program, try to sit with them as
often as possible. Do not allow your youngsters to have a set in
their bedroom.
VALUABLE: Not all TV is bad. There is good programming,
discuss the values, such as sharing or kindness, covered in the
shows.
REALITY: Talk about the difference between fact, fiction
and fantasy.
HAVE A SAY: Within reason, let older children plan their
weekly viewing schedule in advance. Parents still have veto power.
Praise your child's good choices.
DON'T DELAY BED: If a favourite show airs past bedtime,
tape the program.
COMMERCIALS: TV is a powerful force when it comes to
selling goods. Discuss commercials with your kids.
FOOD-FREE ZONE: Avoid eating in front of the TV.
CHORES FIRST: If homework or household chores aren't
done, then the TV shouldn't go on. |
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