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Tuning out
the tube
Bidding bye-bye to television
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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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