by C.D. Crowder

Created on: April 07, 2008

Television is the root of all evil, or so some people believe. For the majority; however, television is just a simple and cheap form of entertainment. Does television really affect children? It all depends on what they watch.

TAKE RESPONSIBILITY

Instead of taking television away, simply restrict what children watch. Parents and guardians must take responsibility for what their children watch. No one can watch over a child 24/7, but monitoring them as much as possible helps teach a child what is good television and what is bad. Surprisingly, they will listen, especially if parents start teaching them young.

Being a responsible parent means watching family movies and shows with your child. Children can learn a lot from television. Being there to answer any questions they might have will prevent any bad influences from television.

BIGGER INFLUENCES

Parents may believe children are highly influenced by television; however, children are normally more influenced by the people around them. Children can be influenced by books or magazines they read as much as by a television show. Unless a child is going to be a protective bubble, then parents cannot prevent children from learning bad things from others.

This goes back to being responsible for your child. Teach them right from wrong and you won't have to worry about what they see on TV.

TAKING AWAY CREATES DESIRE

Ever told a child not to do something? This leads to them wanting to do it more. If you restrict television access, but do not completely take it from them, they will be less likely to sneak around and watch anyway. After all, their friends are watching, so they are at the very least going to hear about shows and movies.

Instead of forbidding a child to watch television, let them watch certain age appropriate shows. Watch the shows with them to make sure they are fine with you the parent as well. Think of when you try to forbid a child to eat candy. They will do everything they can to sneak around and then they gorge on what they find. The same applies to television. Children will watch the wrong shows just to make a point.

Television isn't evil and never has been. Parents that don't allow children to watch television are taking away a valuable learning tool. Television can affect children in good ways as well. Children, carefully monitored, should be allowed to watch television.

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