Q: My kids are 7 and 9 years old and I feel they watch too much television even though they both have a room full of toys. After they come home from school and do their homework, they say they would rather watch TV or a video instead of play with their toys and games. I don’t like to start a fight with them over this so I often give in and allow them their TV time. Do you have any suggestions of how I can draw their attention away from the TV and into other things?
A: Many parents often complain that their children are so consumed with watching television shows and playing computer games. We live in an age where electronics have become such a huge part of our every day lives. Many parents are strict about the amount of television and computer time their children are allowed to have each day. Some believe that television and computers are a privilege and only let their children use them as a "reward". I believe that there are many wonderful things you can do to defer your kids’ attention away from their extensive television watching. Since they are so interested in what they see on TV, you can relate it to everyday experiences. If they have a favorite movie, turn it into a meaningful experience or activity. For example, if they happen to love a movie about dinosaurs, take them to a dinosaur exhibit at a museum, read books about dinosaurs or do a creative art project. You can look in your local newspaper for events in your community or there are many websites that provide lots of ideas on a variety of topics. A great website that you must visit is http://www.kidsoffthecouch.com/. It provides excellent ideas of how to get your kids off the couch and get more involved in culture and family time. Each week they provide new suggestions of a movie to watch and activities to go along with it. Both you and your kids will be happy!
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