by Colene Pefley

Created on: July 03, 2010   Last Updated: August 19, 2010

Society has become obsessed with onscreen entertainment. This includes standard television programming, video games, movies, videos, and computers in general. Many devices are now mobile, which increases the risk of addiction. This addiction can cause obesity and many other health and mental problems. Children are especially at risk, because their environment is responsible for many aspects of their development. Breaking this habit before adulthood is easier than trying to change behaviors once they are grown.

Children learn from the example that their parents set, so creating a family that uses the television and computer as luxuries, rather than necessities, is imperative to establishing responsible viewing habits. There are many ways to discourage spending too much time watching television (or similar activities).

Leading by example is one way that parents can get their children to change their sedentary habits. Playing board games or going for a family bike ride are both great ways to increase mental and physical activity. This also brings families closer together. Bonding with their children is something that many parents take for granted. Society has caused people more to become more anti-social. Computers, televisions, and mobile devices all allow people to either communicate by distance or not at all. This can cause children to be quite comfortable without regular social interaction. Their social skills can be greatly impacted by overusing any of these devices.

Television is a bad role model for children. It is filled with not only sex and violence, but other inappropriate content that may confuse children. Children should not learn what is right or wrong from watching television. This is for parents to teach their children. When children watch too much television they lose their connection with the real world. They may become obsessed or addicted to television shows, and it may shorten their patience and attention span. Studies have even hinted at the possibility that too much time in front of the television can cause ADHD. This alone should cause parents to think again before letting their children become consumed in the pseudo-world of television.

Creating a home environment that makes children feel safe, relaxed, and creatively inspired is definitely conducive to their happiness and wellbeing. Breaking the television habit can be difficult, and easing into this transition slowly is perfectly acceptable, but it is necessary. Consider choosing one TV-free night at first, and see how it progresses. Perhaps children will look forward to this time with their family, and it may grow from there. Creating experiences is much more fun than watching them on television.

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