How to Turn Your Television Off

Don't panic! I'm not suggesting that you stop watching t.v. altogether. However, if you think that you watch too much television, there are a few things that you can do to help reduce your time spent in front of the tube.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. For one week, log all of the hours that you and your family members spend watching television. Make notes of which shows you've watched, and also note how often the t.v. is on when no one is in the room. You will probably be surprised at how much time is spent in front of the t.v.

2. Do the math. Based on the figures from the step above, figure out how much t.v. you watch in a year. Make a list of things that you would like to do with your life rather than spend all of those hours in front of the television. Think of all of the amazing things that you can do and learn by having those hours of your life back.

3. If your t.v. is on, locate the power button. Push it. Can't find the clicker? Here's a secret that many kids these days don't know about. There is a power button right on the television itself! Find it. Press it.

4. To make the step above more appealing, make plans to do some fun things that you do during normal "t.v." time. You can call a friend, play a game, bake cookies, learn a new skill, start a journal, go for a walk, etc. Choose something that you know that you will love to do. You may find it easier to keep your commitment if your chosen activity involves another person.

5. Don't turn on the t.v. when you first walk in the door, and don't leave it on if no one is watching it.

6. If you're really serious about cutting down, move your t.v. to a spot that is not so easily accessible, or to a room that as not as appealing to spend time in.

7. Plan what you'll watch for the week. Pick a few favorite shows, and stick to it. When one of your shows ends, turn off the t.v. and do something else.

Resources

• T.V. Free Fun for Kids in Avon, CT.

[NightScribe]

on 4/1/2009 So many of us turn on the TV automatically. How to turn your television off is great advice.

[goodselfme]

on 2/25/2009 this is a good idea. Too much tv robs family of time spent together talking and playing games. You are so right!

[veryirie]

on 2/5/2009 Good subject on turning off that TV. Thanks for the reminders that we can do things without the TV on in the background. :)

[changeling]

on 1/15/2009 Great way to break it down. Most of us probably watch enough TV equivalent to a 2nd job.

[Beckybugg]

on 12/24/2008 Great tips!