1. Be Present

One of the valid problems with letting children watch television or movies is that they might pick up negative concepts about either themselves or other people. Just the other day, my daughter, Lia, was watching Sprout. I was in the kitchen making eggs, the only thing I know how to make, and she ran into the kitchen looking distressed.

“Do I have hair on my arms?” She asked.

“Yes, most people do.” 

She whimpered, and her eyes widened, “Then how will I get rid of it without a No! No!”

I was confused, and then I looked toward the TV and saw a commercial for a a device that helps you get rid of unwanted body hair, a “No! No!”  

The situation is funny this time, but the lesson is clear that much of the media on TV can put silly and self-destructive ideas into children’s heads.

However, these ideas may not take root if children are given the right guidance from a parent. Be aware of what your kids are watching so that you can speak to any of the “sticky” ideas that might arise. Don’t just sit your child in front of a TV without being aware of what will come on that screen. 

2. Luxury not a Right

Many forms of entertainment today are often viewed as a necessity. This is a problem for both adults and children. How many of you have seen memes comparing Tom Hanks stranded on an island to how it feels when we lose a good Wi-Fi connection? 

Wi-Fi and cable are nice things to have but guess what, humans lived for centuries without having any of those things and we turned out…okay. So make sure you instill in your children the fact that it’s a privilege to have a cellphone, TV, or computer and not necessity. 

Knowing it’s a luxury might help cut back on children having tantrums or acting out because they can’t watch a movie before finishing chores or simply because Mom said “no.” 

3. Discover New Mediums 

If you afraid that your children might be getting “addicted” to using electronics or movies as forms of entertainment, then you might want to introduce them to other mediums. If your child doesn’t like to read, then maybe they will like listening to an audiobook while playing with Legos.

Or, instead of watching a movie on a Friday night, surprise them by taking them to see a play. There are many theaters that do adaptations of Ramona Quimby books, Peanuts, and even Star Wars that you and your kids might enjoy. 

Photo Credit: Beverly Cleary's Website (Image Cropped)

4. Educate

Remind your children that electronics can be used for educational purposes and not just entertainment.  If you have a little one who likes cartoons, pick up a copy of Schoolhouse Rock! for them to watch instead of a Bratz movie.  

In reality, electronics are only as “dumb” or “smart” as their users. 

Choose to use them in smart way. 

Photo Credit: Schoolhouse Rock IMDB (Image Cropped)