Children should limit TV time and engage in activities that promote cognitive development, such as reading, playing outside, board games, crafts, and educational adventures. Parents should set an example by participating in these activities with their children.
Children and television go hand in hand. When the television is on, children will watch it, putting aside their toys, and thus their cognitive development. Educational programs provide children with some intellectual development, but not much compared to imaginative play. Children can stop watching TV all day and enjoy themselves in other ways.
Children who read or are read on a daily basis tend to do better in school. Besides being instructive, reading is also relaxing for both parents and children. It’s a great way to spend quality time with your family through hands-on interaction. Magazines such as Highlights and National Geographic also entertain children with their games and brightly colored images. Books and magazines that capture a child’s attention will help him stop watching TV.
Encouraging children to play outside will help them stop watching TV so much. Physical activity helps prevent obesity and improves the child’s motor skills. Take the kids to the park, fishing or hiking. If this is not possible, send them to the garden.
Bring the kids together for a family-friendly board game. Children will stop watching TV if they are playing with their parents and/or siblings. Board games encourage children to think strategically, using their problem solving skills.
Turn off the TV and get out crafts. Many kids would rather not watch TV if they can build creative projects without too many restrictions. If you’re concerned about clutter, send the kids outside to do art projects, where it can be easily cleaned up. Markers and washable crayons work well for young children who can color the walls and furniture.
Spend a day taking the kids on an educational adventure. Take a nature walk in the fall and look for different types of leaves on the ground. Visit the zoo and see the baby animals in the spring. Visit museums and art galleries in the winter to see local art exhibits. A parent would be surprised to learn of the conversations that can develop when children stop watching TV.
Children will imitate their parents. If parents sit on the sofa all day watching TV, their children will too. Parents should occasionally take time to stop watching TV and join their children outside or in a board game. This shows them that watching TV isn’t necessary to have fun.
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