A new national study shows how television has become a central focus of many very young children’s lives. Is that a good thing or a bad thing? That depends on how parents approach it. The following questions and answers may help you decide:
Q: How much television do children watch?
A: According to the study released by the Kaiser Family Foundation, in a typical day more than eight in 10 children under the age of 6 use screen media, with those children averaging about two hours a day.
Q: How is TV used in most homes?
A: In many homes, electronic media are used to help manage busy schedules, keep the peace and facilitate family routines such as eating, relaxing and falling asleep. TV can also be used to educate. Thirty-seven years ago, Sesame Workshop changed the history of television with “Sesame Street,” proving educational television can be a positive learning tool for preschoolers.
Now, the nonprofit educational organization behind the show has developed a new line of DVDs called Sesame Beginnings. It’s designed to encourage interaction between caregivers and children, as well as to provide ideas, songs and...