If you don't like what networks are showing, complain to stations, networks, the FCC and through letters to the editor. Discuss the roles that different characters play on TV and how they are represented. Have your children compare TV's message about men, women, minority races and gay people to what they see and experience in real life. Keep a media journal with your children so that you can both see exactly how much TV your child is watching and what your child watches. Replace TV time gradually with more creative activities.
Young children can benefit greatly from being reminded that much of television is fictional.
Discuss with children what it is they like about the shows they watch. If they like a violent show, ask what appeals to them about the show. If they watch a program with sexual content, find out why they watch it. Discuss your media standards with neighbors and parents of friends your child will visit. Set limits based on protecting the youngest child in the room.