The average child spends 20 or more hours watching TV each week -- that’s more time than is spent in any other activity besides sleeping. Because TV can play such a large part in your family’s lifestyle, here are a few tips on managing TV viewing:
Limit the amount of time your family spends watching TV. Make it a rule that children must finish their homework and chores before watching TV. Set a good example and limit your own TV time as well. Instead of “channel-surfing,” go for a walk or bike ride. Turn off the TV during meals and talk with your family instead.
Pay attention to what programs your children watch. Encourage them to watch educational programs and public television stations.
Watch TV with your children and discuss the shows. Talk about the consequences of violence, stereotyping, and prejudice in TV programs, and the differences between reality and make-believe.