Family TV Time

With so much emphasis on limiting or eliminating TV, although a noble idea, is just not realistic. Television is a part of the American culture and parents needs to think of how to use the TV as a tool to help their preschooler or kindergartener learn from it. It's really up to you how TV influences your small child and with some limits in place, it can be a powerful tool. So how can watching TV be a good experience for your child? One way is to watch TV together as a family.

Advantages of Family TV Time

• You can observe how your child reacts to the show. It's a great opportunity to observe your child and see how he or she reacts to the show you're watching. Depending on how he or she reacts to sounds or words or even actions. In most cases your preschooler will be up and moving to the action and depending on the type of show, interacting and talking the whole time. But he or she will jump back to you creating a secure and enjoyable environment for both of you. It's a great way to see how they are developing their cognitive abilities and speech.
• You can spend time to bond. This is an excellent time to get on the comfy lazy boy recliner and hold your child while you both enjoy the show. This is a great bonding time for you and your child as you can both sing, talk and interact with the program.
• You may clarify anything that your child doesn't understand As your preschooler watches different shows, questions might come up about the show or really anything. It's always surprising when some question will come out of the blue because of something that was said or done while watching TV. You have the opportunity to clarify any misunderstandings and talk about any issues that might come up.