The shows kids watch add up, and summer's free time can mean even more time for the tube. That's when a student's school year gains are eroded or erased by months of mental idleness. National studies show a decline in achievement when kids watch TV more than 10-15 hours per week.
Students earn higher test scores when they read more and watch TV less.
When parents take charge, however, the benefits are far-reaching. In a recent study by PBS, parents who took charge of their child's TV viewing got remarkable results. Parents were far more likely to watch and discuss the shows with their children. The parents also read books to children more often, and for longer periods, and took more trips to the library and bookstore. They matter because smart alternatives to TV can provide a big boost to your child's brain.