Radio Commentary
In setting up
rules about television viewing especially over the summer, be sure to monitor
what your children watch.
Encourage them to
choose programs that make them think, are free of violence and sex, and show
characters that have values similar to yours.
When watching TV
with your children, ask questions like “Why do you think that person did what
he did?” Encourage your children to ask questions as well, and be sure to
answer them honestly.
Limit overall
television viewing time. During commercials, review what you just watched and
predict what will happen next.
Turn off the
television if you see things on it that you don’t like. But be sure to explain
to your child why you are doing so. Say:
“I don’t like what those people are doing because . . .”
Remember that when
children are watching TV it takes them away from other activities like reading
and sports. Plan games, trips to the library, and trips to parks and
playgrounds to take the place of TV.
Once you’ve
established a basic foundation for TV viewing, try to find new ways of using
the television to teach and have fun. Television can actually help teach your
child geography and math.
Have reference
materials or a computer near the TV so additional information is available.
Have your child look up new words in a dictionary, or look at an atlas to find
places mentioned in a show. This way it’s fun and educational.
