The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages any TV viewing under
the age of two and recommends that children over two limit television and video
viewing to no more than 1 to 2 hours per day of quality programming.
The real world has more to teach young children and it is healthier for
them to be active than getting in the habit of just sitting watching TV.
Alternatives for time together include reading, listening to music and playing
with games or toys. Some families begin to think about putting a separate television in their child's
room at an early age such a "privilege" is likely to set up bad habits that
are very hard to break later. Better to not start it.
It is the parent's job to protect children from inappropriate programs.
This includes the violence on TV in many cartoons. Soap operas and talk shows
often highlight issues that may be inappropriate for young children.
If you let your child watch TV, it is best to watch together and talk about what you see.
