The debate over how much TV is too much TV is one of those issues that will probably continue to be debated for many years. While I try to limit the amount of TV Tyler watches, I don’t feel I need to ban the “idiot box” all together. Since I limit his TV time, Tyler knows what to expect and does not argue the point. I don’t control how much TV he watches when he’s with his father. As I said, I don’t think we should ban TV altogether. And yes, some days I allow him to watch more TV than on other days. Generally, if I have a deadline looming or I’m sick I will cut him some slack.
How does a parent select appropriate TV programs for their impressionable offsprings? In the current issue of Family Education newsletter, tips for picking TV shows are offered.
Parents should ask themselves five questions about the program their kids want to watch:
(1) Is the message a valuable one? Parents should make sure that the objective of the show is worthwhile. Parents are also encouraged to recommend shows based on their child’s interests and tastes. For example, if your child loves science fiction, look for these types of programs.
(2) Is the message clear? Not only should the intended message contain value but it should be presented in a way that the target audience can easily comprehend. And of course, the material should also be age-appropriate.
(3) Is the program an educational show specifically designed to teach a concept or is the show primarily for entertainment? If the program is educational in nature, it should have a message that is developed and resolved at the end of the show. Shows that are for entertainment purposes often carry an educational message as a secondary storyline offering a message that becomes clear at the end of the show and is related to the main storyline.
(4) Does the show present the message in a way that is engaging and challenging for the audience? The presentation should be appropriate for the target audience. Animation will work for younger kids but not go over well older kids, for example.
(5) Will the target audience find the message useful is his own life?
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