How much TV your kid needs?

Television can be good to our kids. It can be a source of learning. There are programs that teach them the alphabet and number, learn about plants and animals from nature shows and creative learning from art shows. Also, it can be source of entertainment and laughter such as music shows, comedies and game shows. Watching Television with kids can be fun wherein each member will enjoy discussing and enjoying the show.

However, too much television can have negative effect especially when our children watch the wrong shows such as shows that depict violence, which lead our children to be aggressive. Children don’t know the difference between reality and fantasy, fear can be developed and believe that the world is scary and something will happen to them.

Some pointers to remember when watching television with your children

• Be a good example. Aware what programmes your watching when children around and the amount of time spent in watching television.
• Aware with the kind of programmes watched by your kids. Watch the preview so that you will know the content.
• Enforce rules regarding watching television. Limit the watching television hours. One to two hour a day is the upper limit, no television during meal time and while doing home works, etc.
• Watch television with your children. In this case you can assess the programmes if it is violence especially when your child is watching a new show.
• Check the TV listing. Know the educational shows, kid-friendly show or family programmes.
  
• Explain to your child about what he or she sees in television. Discuss to them what they have learned from the show. Tell your children if the some act on television is not appropriate.
• Offer fun choices to television. Encourage your children to play with their playmates, read books, pursue art, board games and perform outdoor activities instead of watching television. Spent time with them when engaged in these activities and make fun for both of you.
• Make your children aware the cause of too much television viewing can be having negative effects in their attitudes. Tell them not to watch violence show because they can develop aggressive behavior and give them less time for their family and friends.
  

Always remember that anything that too much is not good. What really important is balance everything. Television can be helpful if you are able to monitor your children with the kind of programmes they’re watching.