Parents Guide And Tips To Reducing TV And Screen Time
Did you know? There is no waking activity that we do that burns fewer calories than watching TV? The more television children watch, the more likely children are to snack between meals and want the foods advertised on commercials.
Limiting TV and screen time is important for children and it provides kids with time for other activities that exercise their muscles, bones and heart.
The American Academy of Pediatricians recommends that children are limited to two hours or less of screen time.
Here are some steps to reducing the amount of TV your child watches.
Let’s be honest. Television is mesmerizing and that is why parents like it occasionally because it keeps children quiet. Here are some simple steps to follow to make sure your family is making smart choices when it’s time for TV:
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Decide as a family what television programs are worthwhile to watch. Sit down a few minutes before the show comes on and
then turn the television off at the end
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Make sure your child has finished his/her homework and chores before relaxing in front of the tube
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Set a time limit for watching television each day and stick to it
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Replace television time with some other fun time such as a quick card game or a walk around the block. It’s a great opportunity to talk to your child about their day
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Spend time talking with your child during family meals and keep the television turned off during the meal
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Place the remote away from the couch or table so there is less temptation to turn it on if your child is bored
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Children can easily eat an entire bag of pretzels while watching their favorite show because they are not paying attention. Pour one serving of the pretzels in a bowl instead of the bag. Better yet, skip the snack until after the show.
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Keep the television in an area of the house where you can see and hear what your child is watching
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Remove the TV set from your child’s bedroom
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Do not use television as a reward for a job well done
Healthy Eating
Healthy Child
Written by Michelle Mirizzi
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Written on Apr 11, 2009
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Last updated on Mar 14, 2014
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