My children definitely spend a lot of time in front of a screen. Between their favorite shows and their games, it’s more than enough in my opinion. But they also have to do some of their homework on the computer. And some of their books are on their e-readers. Most of their correspondence with their friends is via text messages, Facebook, or e-mail. It’s the generation. So I’ve stopped trying to limit their screen time – as long as they’re not fighting. That’s when I want to throw all the technology away.
My boys are not couch potatoes – they play sports, study music, enjoy family board games and card games…for my younger one, the cooking shows help fuel his imagination in the kitchen. TV started out as something educational for them. Blue’s Clues and Sesame Street incorporated counting, spelling, sequencing, and sign language. Sesame Street also included Spanish, as did Dora the Explorer. One of my favorites was always Mr. Rogers, who fostered their imaginary play, supported emotional self-expression, and encouraged exploration of so many things. Even shows like Power Rangers provided an outlet for active play fighting – it didn’t increase their aggression, it channeled their energy. Through TV, they became fans of opera and musical theater, classic films and movie renditions of their favorite books. More recently, some TV shows have helped open up conversations about things like drinking, drugs, and safe sex. TV also offers the opportunity to bond with each other (and their dad) through sports.
Every family should make their own decisions without judgement of others – each family has different opinions, needs, schedules, limitations, and support. That goes for anything- breastfeeding, potty training, when to start preschool and whether to go to therapy…You can find pros and cons on line (see links to TV pros and cons below), some of which I agree with and others not so much…but all good to read.
http://www.parents.com/fun/entertainment/television/the-great-tv-debate/; http://www.whattoexpect.com/toddler-discipline/toddlers-and-tv.aspx; http://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/tv-for-tots
If you’re looking for something to do as a family that doesn’t involve screen time, visit us at www.mybabyfingers.com/schedule and join us for a class!
