Know the difference between real and make-believe. TV's dramatic series, soap operas, situation comedies, and movies are created by skilled writers who can often make fiction seem real. Ask your children if they know the difference between these types of programs and those that depict actual events, like news, talk shows, and sports. Point out that many police, rescue, and hospital shows are dramatic fiction often based on real events. Watch for hidden agendas and bias.
Television often reflects the bias and stereotypes of the real world.
Discuss sensitive themes like sex, abortion, firearms use, gambling, drug use, cigarette smoking, and alcohol so that your children know how you feel about them. Talk with children about how TV shows treat age and gender. Place sensible limits on TV-watching. Find good programs by scanning television guides for recommendations, then list them on a chart to show what each family member may see. Watch programs together as much as possible.