Do not use the television as a babysitter. Do not allow your child to have a television in his or her bedroom. Discuss the teaching value of a program with your child, such as the importance of sharing, giving, loving or doing the alphabet together. Programs like Mister Rogers' Neighborhood and Sesame Street are very useful in helping your child's development. Use follow-up activities that further develop material presented on the programs.
Children learn many of their values and ideas from their parents.
Also, be sure to explain the rules of television watching in your home to caregivers such as nannies, babysitters or grandparents. Limit daily television watching to one hour or less for preschoolers and two hours or less for early school-aged children. Use the other time available to teach skills such as reading and writing, or to visit museums, zoos and aquariums. Older children should be given the opportunity to plan their weekly viewing schedule in advance, but parents should still supervise their choices. Praise your child for making good choices, and encourage him or her to criticize and analyze what he or she sees on television.