How to Limit TV Viewing for a Child

We have all heard the debate regarding the influence of TV on our children. Many of these concerns are real if we let our children watch too much TV, or inappropriate shows. Here are some steps to follow to limit how much TV your child watches.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Monitor for a few days the number of hours your child watches TV. Compare it to other non-media activities like playing, coloring or drawing.
2. Determine if the shows they watch are appropriate for their age. Also identify their favorite shows.
3. Decide how much time you want your child watching TV, and which shows you approve of them watching.
4. Talk to your child. Inform the child of the new guidelines and how you plan to limit the amount of TV viewing for your child. Allow some say in the decision process, like choosing one show over another so that time limits are observed. Consider allowing extra time watching TV to be earned by good behavior, completing chores or other important assignments.
5. Explain to your child why you are making these changes. It is important for your child to understand that you want him or her to spend more time with the family, exploring creative talents and spending time focusing on other tasks. Be sure your child understands the benefits of doing something other than loafing in front of the TV.
6. Remove the TV from their bedroom. Your ability to monitor the amount of time in front of the TV and the shows they watch is greatly limited by the bedroom door.
7. Turn off the TV. This may sound simple, but it can be hard for some families, especially if the family is used to having the TV on 24/7. If you want to limit the amount of TV viewing for a child, you may have to limit the amount of TV viewing for the entire family.
8. Provide alternate activities for your child to fill their time and mind. The TV usually comes on because the kids are bored, or the parents want some time to themselves without interruption. Providing books, coloring pages, craft projects and puzzles is a great way to keep children occupied.

Tips & Warnings

• Set a good example by limiting the amount of TV you watch. If the children see you enjoying other activities, they will be likely to join you.
• If your child really wants to view a show that you do not approve of, consider watching it with them. Discuss the show afterward, mentioning how it differs from the morals and values you are trying to teach your child. Help them learn to be active listeners, not just naive sponges.
• Turn the TV off at least one hour before bedtime, as this will help your child wind down and rest easier. They are also less likely to dream about what they saw on TV.
• Do not forget that you are the parent. Your responsibility to your child is to provide safe boundaries where they can grow and develop. You have the power to set TV limits and guidelines. If necessary, remove the TV from the home if the children are not following your boundaries.