Normal child is spending a fair amount of time doing normal kid stuff such as playing outdoors, being with friends or playing with toys and pets. But, if you noticed that your child is misbehaving and is like spending most of his time sitting in front of the TV and watching all day long and if he seems more interested in what's on TV than what's going on around him, nags you to buy what he sees on TV, imitates violence, and gains weight from the lack of activity. Then its time for you to set rules and regulations and can prevent your whole family from becoming TV addicts. Here are some tips that I have read from smart parenting magazine:
- Decide how much TV your family will watch Consider a time limit, which should be no more than two hours of quality television per day. This forces the child to choose his own programs, thus teaching the concept of prioritizing. It also forces both child and parent to find constructive ways to spend time together.
- Set specific times of the day for watching television Come up with a TV schedule where everyone gets equal time on their chosen channel. Squeeze in some activities with toys, puzzles, and board games in between TV schedules.
- Have TV-free zones, such as the dining area, where the family can catch up on the day's happenings When TV threatens human interaction or active play, push the power button off.
- Watch TV programs with your kids Consider only the shows that expand your child's world. Ask him questions. Talk. Follow up learning with additional sources such as books.
- Never use TV as a pacifier or babysitter This leads your child to think that if he whines or becomes unruly, he will be allowed to watch TV.
- Do not just nag kids to get out of the couch; be active together It's no secret that obesity is on the rise, since kids can literally stay in the house for days just watching their favorite shows on TV. Children need to be active, not sedentary. Parents have to regulate TV time to make way for trips to the park or the zoo. Real life is much more interesting than anything.
- Have your kids watch educational videos, instead of whatever's showing on TV This way, you can pause for further discussion about what you're watching.
- Keep TV out of children's bedrooms Open access to TV distracts a child from homework, physical activity, and family interaction.
1 comment:
I recently learned that television is the equivalent to the most effective form of hypnotism, a small blinking light. This disables the frontal lobe where logic, problem solving, impulse control, among other important aspects of thinking take place. Very dangerous stuff, that television. We cannot be too careful of what we choose to watch.
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