July 12, 2007
Media Darlings
Many parents today grew up in the dark ages of media: no cable, no Internet, no Baby Einstein videos. But now kids are blasted wherever they turn.
Enter Common Sense Media, a San Francisco not-for-profit dedicated to helping parents manage media in the family. The organization reviews TV shows, movies, websites, video games and music, and determines the level of age appropriateness for each. Below, editor in chief Liz Perle shares their "Healthy Media Diet for Young Kids" (ages 2 to 5):
Limits: No more than one to two hours of "screen time" a day (meaning computers, movies, television, videos) for young kids. Avoid commercial television; PBS is a good alternative. Absolutely no television (videos, etc.) for those younger than 2 years.
Age matters: Although parents tend to take pride in boasting that their kids understand material that is "above grade level," they should choose age-appropriate shows/videos/movies. Check ratings.
Location: Keep televisions and computers out of a child's room. They are habit forming – and research has shown that the more sedentary time children have, the higher their weight and the lower their test scores. (Plus, don't forget about Internet safety issues.)
Create an interactive experience together: Parental involvement is critical in determining how kids learn to use and depend on media. Discuss the show and ask questions such as, "Who is your favorite character?"
Set the record straight: Explain the difference between fantasy and reality. Teach kids how to distinguish between ads and program content. Explain that the purpose of an ad/commercial is to make them want something.
Perle also weighs in on this summer's children's movies: "It's not a real G-rated summer," she says. Ratatouille is fine for kids 5 and up. No Harry Potter for younger children. And although Transformer toys are being marketed to the sandbox set, forget about the movie unless your child is older than 12.
For more information, visit commonsensemedia.org.
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