Positive Effects of Television on a Child
The television has been a mainstay in most American households for decades. Many children tend to plop themselves in front of the television for entertainment instead of making their own entertainment. While many experts claim that television is bad for children, some believe that television can actually play a beneficial role in a child's life, if used properly.
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Moderation
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Moderating the amount of television a child may watch in a given day is important for healthy development. Set up blocks of times your child can watch television to properly limit his watching and give him a sense of responsibility by monitoring himself. Self-monitoring can prove beneficial in the future development of your child, though you may need to step in once in a while.
Educational Programs
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There are many channels and television shows that provide both fun and education. Limiting the majority of your child's television time to these types of shows can assist in her development, some experts say. Television can also be more efficient at teaching a child certain tasks, as opposed to reading about it, as she can watch the task unfold.
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Catalyst for Reading
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Parents can also use the television as a springboard for reading. After watching an educational program, your child may become more interested in a topic. Use that interest to drive your child toward reading. Take him to the library and check out a few books on the topic of interest.
Family Time
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The television can also help to bring family closer. Schedule a family television night once or twice a week. After the show or movie is over, start a discussion about the subject. This can help encourage a healthy family atmosphere.
Introduces New Cultures
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The television can actually introduce your child to new cultures and customs. This can lead to him be more culturally accepting as an adult. You can discuss different cultures as a family as part of family television time to compounds the benefit.
Bridge to Conversations
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Television can also help build a bridge for difficult conversations between parents and children. A child who watches a show that has an instance of death is an example of television's role as a bridge to a tough conversation.
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References
- Photo Credit rural landscape on flat screen tv image by javarman from Fotolia.com
