If you're like most parents then you know how conveinient the television can be in your household. It will hold your child's attention when it seems like nothing else can. Still, what we hear is that too much TV is bad for kids and that it leads to higher rates of childhood obesity. I was once an advocate for using television as a learning tool. Then I found out that even though a particular show may be educational, a child's brain still needs a creative outlet. So I gathered my courage and once school started last fall, I cut viewing time to a minimum.
The first day of no TV, I thought I'd die. I'd grown used to the background noise and the kids actually sitting down for 20 minutes or so at a time, depending on the show. But when they asked to watch something I said no. Then I realized I had to help fill their void until they could auto pilot their own play without TV. If you are in the same boat, here is a list of good things to do to balance your little ones out.
1. Go outside. You'd be surprised what a daily outing will do for you and the kids.
2. Make cake...or cookies, or meatballs. Whatever you're cooking, they'll want to help. After they've help make a dish they usually eat whatever portion you put on their plate.
3.Stock up on art supplies like construction paper, watercolors, crayons and markers. Make these items easily accessible. Kids will keep busy on their own.
4. Go to your neighboorhood library and check out picture books for preschoolers and chapter books for older kids. Once you read the stories a few times, they'll seek them out on their own. Also try out books on CD. Get a set of $1 headphones and teach them to enjoy quiet time.
5. Go to storytime or craft time at the library. There are normally live shows and other entertainment for kids and adults to enjoy. Most of it is free.
6. Encourage imaginitive play by providing play clothes and accessories for kids to dress up in and pretend. You can even give them some things from your closet. Their imaginations will do the rest.
7. Play-doh. Need I say more? Be sure to set rules or use a plastic mat around their play area. Play-doh in carpet is no fun.
8. Let the kids help sort laundry, fill and start the washer or fold clothes. The more involved in household duties they become, the better for everyone.
9. Do at home science experiments. This one is my personal favorite and the kids' favorite. Check out a science book from the library or go to www.pbs.org/teachers. Pick a grade level to see different ideas.
10. Set a small amount of TV time and stick to it. Let your child know that they can watch a little at whatever time you specify. After that time is up, turn the set off and put the remote away.
I hope these tips are helpful. If you have more to add to the list, please leave a comment.
Many Blessings,
Polly
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