TV Time and Families

           A recent study from the University of Washington in Seattle suggests that the more hours of television children watch when they are between the ages of one and three, the more likely their parents will report that their children have attention problems by age seven. 

The problems reported included short attention span, difficulties concentrating and impulsiveness.  There’s not much parents can do about the creative edge to marketing or the content of television programs, but we can be as involved and aware of our kids’ media use. 

What does that mean in practical terms?  Though it is not possible to shield our kids completely from the bombardment of media images and messages, we can give them basic tools and values to help them filter those messages successfully and make good decisions.

- Establish Good Media Habits Early.  Start when kids are toddlers so they will grow up with a sense that media use is a privilege, instead of a constant activity.  Establish rules about when, where and how children can use the media and be selective about what you let them play with, listen to and watch.  Even if you didn’t start young, it is never too late to start paying attention and influence the amount and content of your child’s media consumption.

- Location, Location, Location.  Where you place the TV or computer, send an important message about whether media is a choice or a habit. Television sets and computers should be in common areas or family rooms where you can supervise what your children are watching or doing. 

- A Media Diet vs. A Media Splurge.   You are not going to banish all media from your home, but you can actively encourage a diet that balances good nutrition with kids’ natural desire for unlimited treats.  Start by taking stock of your family’s current level of media consumption: how much and what they read, listen to or watch.  Involve your children in coming up with a healthier media diet for everyone.

-  View and Voice Together:  Sit down and watch television and videos with your children. Listen tot heir music, play video games with them. By doing this you show them that you respect and are interested in their choices. You can also help open communication and trust, which will improve your chances of influencing them.