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Q: Are cartoons OK for my kids to watch?Ask Our Expert About TV’s Affect on Children
Q: Are cartoons OK for my kids to watch?A: Many parents feel confident that cartoons and other programs aimed at children are harmless, but even cartoons can contain violence, fighting, sexual content and disrespectful, risky or aggressive behavior - often more than prime time television. Children's television is not suited for all children all the time. The content varies during the day, and some stations run cartoons geared toward adults at night. These are especially inappropriate for children. Q: I grew up with Bugs Bunny and the Road Runner and survived. Why shouldn't my children watch cartoons?A: We're more aware of television's impact on children now. A child's mind processes information differently. There's a very fine line between fantasy and reality, and kids model what they see on television. It may seem funny when an anvil drops on Wile E. Coyote, until your 3-year-old drops something on her baby brother's head. Or your adolescent thinks it's OK to bully someone, like his hero Dragon Ball Z. They may get the sense that rude or violent behavior is acceptable, when it's not. Today's cartoons also are more sinister and realistic. Many are built around fighting and violence. And they're more accessible than ever. We've gone from Saturday morning cartoons to 24-hour networks, and some homes have more TVs than people. Studies have shown that children with televisions in their bedrooms are often sleep-deprived and may do poorly in school or have behavior problems because of what and how much they're watching. Q: Are there other risks?A: Children who spend a lot of time in front of the television may not get as much physical activity as they need. They also are exposed to more commercials for sugary, non-nutritious foods, which can foster poor eating habits. Lack of exercise and poor diet contributes to obesity and can lead to health problems like diabetes. Q: Is any children's television safe?A: Some children's television can be educational and teach valuable life lessons in a positive way. PBS is usually innocent, and small children can learn and be entertained by Sesame Street (although children under two should not watch TV at all). Be sure to use it as a supplement to overall development and include other kinds of play and learning, like old-fashioned blocks, books and board games. Q: How can I improve my child's television habits?A: It's tough because parents are busier than ever and kids are often home alone, but don't use television as a babysitter. Limit screen time, including movies, video games and computer time, to less than two hours a day. Try to engage your children in more interactive and family activities. Don't assume all shows are harmless. The best way to know what your children are watching is to watch with them, or at least preview what they're watching. Use it as an opportunity to discuss inappropriate material or unacceptable behavior. This also can help prepare children to make decisions on their own, whether about what to watch or how to make smart choices about sex, drinking, smoking and using drugs. You want to pass along your family values, not the values your kids absorb from television families. Don't forget to be a good role model. Instead of coming home and flopping in front of the television, go for a walk or a bike ride, or read together. Listen to music, talk, play a game and enjoy each other's company. This page last updated 10/15/08 04:14 PM
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