• Kids watching Television is a controversial topic. On one hand, kids learn from watching educational programs. On the other, too much is said to lead to childhood obesity. How can you find just the right amount of TV for your family?

    Being a child of the 80s, I grew up watching tons of television. No one knew it was terrible then. I turned out fine, and so did all of the other people I know my age. So, we know that television won’t cause brain damage, or social problems. I mean, not alone it won’t. There must be other factors there.

    I want to know what it is they are watching, and be available to answer questions or elaborate on anything they don’t understand.

    Anyway, setting some simple rules for your home and television can help your kids to make sure they get the activity they need, the fun they want, and the television they want too. In our house, the television doesn’t come on until after rest time. In fact, it generally only comes on in the late afternoon when I’m trying to wind the kids down before dinner and bed times. All kids are different and react to television shows differently, but this works for my kids. I also make a point to be around while they watch TV. I want to know what it is they are watching, and be available to answer questions or elaborate on anything they don’t understand. Also, when the kids begin playing games based on what they saw, and the characters they love, I know what the heck they are talking about. And that is important stuff! Kids want you to be interested in what they are interested in.

    So, in my house we average about an hour to an hour and a half of TV each day. But do not misunderstand, we all have our days and sometimes a movie day is a must.