With shows like SpongeBob
SquarePants,
Grey's Anatomy and CSI encompassing television sets
across
America, the next generation of television viewers have been strongly
influenced by the importance of television to society. Television is an
everyday part of life for many individuals, however, how is this
affecting the next generation of children?
"There are positive and negative aspects of television and
children," says Rochelle Harris, PhD, Clinical Psychologist, Children’s
Mercy Hospitals and Clinics. "Negatively, children who spend too much
time in front of the television can be incredibly inactive, which can
lead to obesity."
Television can also take away from creative playtime, reading,
family activities and social time with peers.
"It is important to pay attention to what your child is watching,"
says Harris. "If your child is showing aggressive behavior, they
shouldn’t watch violent programs." Also, if your child does not spend
time reading, they could be at a disadvantage with their classmates,
who are into books.
On the other hand, there are some positive aspects of allowing
children to watch TV. "Kids and families need downtime and television
is a passive form of entertainment," says Dr. Harris.
Television can also provide a pro-social element between children
and their peers. If a child doesn’t watch TV, they may not be able to
discuss a popular television show, and thus, their classmates could
leave them out.
Dr. Harris suggests some activities to do with your child
instead of watching TV.
- Play board games
- Read a book together
- Take a walk
- Cook together
- Do activities with family, friends or neighbors
- Learn a hobby, sport, instrument, or an art with your
child.
"Remember, kids model their parents. If you stress the importance of
spending time with the family, your children will also believe it is
important. Spending time together at an early age can create a lifelong
bond between the parent and the child," says Harris.
