Where We Stand: TV Viewing Time/Video Games
The first two years of your
child’s life are especially important in the growth and
development
of her /his brain. During this time, children need positive
interaction with other children and adults. This is especially true
at younger ages, when learning to talk and play with others is so
important.
The American Academy of
Pediatrics (AAP) discourages TV and other media use by children
younger than 2 years and encourages interactive play. For older children, total
entertainment screen time should be limited to less than 1 to 2
hours per day of educational, nonviolent
programs, which should be supervised by parents or other
responsible adults in the home.
The Milton Early Education
Program teachers strongly recommend adhering to these guidelines for
screen time. We hear children talking about television shows and
movies that are meant for adults. There are even instances where
children are not only watching but playing video games like Call of
Duty. As the adults in your children's lives, you are the people
responsible for setting limits on the screen time your child is
exposed to at home.
So the next time your child asks to play a video game or watch tv--"whip" out a board game, build a blanket fort, or get out some fun arts and craft supplies--and see what fun you can have TOGETHER!! And if they are having some 'screen time'--please just make sure it is fun material geared toward young children. It will make all the difference!
