Your Kids and Television: Is it Really All that Bad?

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Also, too much television when a child is young can lead to unhealthy habits as he gets older, and can get in the way of physical activity, reading, spending time with friends and family, and doing homework. In addition, according to the Nemours Foundation, kids who consistently watch more than four hours of television a day are more likely to be overweight, and kids who view violent acts on television are more likely to show aggressive behavior.
Striking the TV balance
It is important for parents to teach children from a young age that television is for occasional entertainment, not a constant distraction. Parents should be strict about setting limits on television time, and permit their children to watch only certain educational shows. The Nemours Foundation offers parents some additional tips for teaching children good television habits, such as:
By making television an occasional alternative to other activities, kids will be less likely to look to it as constant form of entertainment, and will find healthier ways to occupy their time.



