by JC Campbell

Created on: September 15, 2008

While there is no doubt that television has had a detrimental effect on many children, it does not follow that it should be seen as something children should not be exposed to. Television is more than a means of entertainment for families but has also proved to be a remarkable educational tool that has greatly increased our knowledge.

If television has proved destructive to children in some way, this possibly has more to do with the parents than the program makers. Because this medium includes programs that are unsuitable for children does not mean it cannot be controlled. many parents have taken precautions with their children by monitoring the amount of television they watch and the nature of the programs.

Countless families will have happy memories of the family all gathered around the television set at home, watching their favorite program and enjoying the experience together. Although it is true that there are programs now that are anything but family viewing, the medium is still a means for families to enjoy wholesome entertainment together.

Television is also a means to allow us to see things we could not otherwise enjoy such as views of other countries, major events and important news items. Learning about history, geography and all kinds of subjects that are valuable is made possible by means of television and much of what is available can only enhance children's knowledge of the world around them. This can be achieved even when television viewing is limited somewhat.

The idea of raising children without television would probably be considered extreme by most people. Forbidding them to have a television in their own room is another matter. This is something parents may enforce to ensure they can monitor what their children are watching and to discourage them from isolating themselves from the rest of the family. This would be considered a reasonable precaution to take in view of some of the programming they could be exposed to.

Life without television is possible but not necessary. If some families feel it is good for their families, there is no need to be critical as they probably do so with the best of motives. The other side of the issue is that by denying children the medium of television, we remove a wonderful opportunity to increase their knowledge and understanding of the world around them. Television is certainly not essential for life but it is something that if used wisely, can enhance it.

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