The Preschooler

TV Time

This day and age, most parents have some concerns about the amount of television children watch.  Although there are certainly shows out there that are entirely inappropriate for young children to be viewing, there are others that are rooted in wholesome, educational values and concepts.  It can be very stressful trying to decide who can watch, how much, and what kind of shows are permitted in your home.

Of course, one option is to eliminate television altogether.  Although this may a strategy that works in some homes, many people are not willing to give up this form of entertainment in its entirety.  A different route which may work for others is to limit the amount of television being viewed.

In our home, our children are permitted to watch three half-hour shows each day and one movie each week.  We used to keep track of their TV time on a chart, but they are now able to keep track in their heads.  At first, they would watch all three shows when they first got up in the morning.  However, they quickly learned to reserve a show for later in the day.  Most days, they choose to watch all three shows, but there are some days where the television is never viewed.

Whatever strategy you choose to implement, be firm and consistent.  If your children learn early that you, the parent, have the final say on when the TV can be on and what programs can be viewed, they will be less likely to argue with you about these same guidelines as they grow older.

Digg Delicious Favorites Blogmarks Magnolia Google Newsvine Reddit Technorati

Written by Laura on September 18, 2009