Talk about stereotypes and explain what they are. Provide some examples of stereotypical roles given to men, women, children, ethnic minorities, the elderly, the disabled and others, and see if they understand. Examine and raise questions about all forms of advertising - television, magazine, billboard, etc. Help kids understand TV genres. Help kids understand that TV is a business and that the business of commercial TV is to sell viewers to advertisers.
Producers sell programs to networks.
Networks sell time to advertisers. Advertisers sell products to viewers. Advertising does not just invite us to buy, it teaches to buy. Question children about violence on TV and consider what is appropriate viewing. Explain how television can teach that some people and ideas are more important than others.