How to Raise No-TV Kids

Whether raising a no-TV kid is your game plan from the first day or it is a decision you make later, it is important to know that your child will be more creative, less influenced by marketing media and have better habits established as they become adults without TV. Stick to your plan and follow these straightforward steps to raise no-TV kids in this TV-centered world.

Instructions

1. Remove the temptation. This does not mean sell your TV on eBay or donate it to the nearest charity, but put it in a room that isn't often used or purchase a TV hutch and close the door on the **** tube.

2. Clarify your rationale to yourself. You will find people questioning you about your decision to raise TV-free kids, and although you are not obligated to answer them at all, it is good to know why you have made this decision for your family.

3. Decide what no TV means to you. In some families it means no TV ever, in some families it is no broadcast TV but the occasional film, and in other families it is no TV at home but at other people's homes it is fine.

4. Explain to your kids why you have made this decision. Even if you raise your child with no TV from day one, at some point your child will ask you why and you should be ready to explain it.

5. Prepare alternative activities and outings for your child. A child who is used to watching an hour of TV a day may all of a sudden find it difficult to fill this time on her own. Offer to do something with your child, such as a craft, play outside or read a book.

Tips & Warnings

• Raising no-TV kids means you need to be a no-TV parent, at least most hours of the day. Be prepared to find ways to entertain yourself if you are used to sitting down and watching your shows in the afternoon.