• Knowledgebase: Parenting Questions

    Questions about the managment of common parenting problems such as discipline.

    24. How much TV should my children watch? - Top

    In reference to television, two issues need to be evaluated; one is the quantity and the other is the quality. As a general rule, only about 2 hours of TV per day is a reasonable quantity time frame. Children that have large amounts of TV time have increased weight problems, decreased academic performance, and decreased socialization skills. But even 2 hours of poor TV such as violent cartoons, violent or sexual oriented adult shows) is too much. So, quality of the TV is also important. Parents should monitor what their children watch and make sure that they are age appropriate and stimulating. When possible you can watch television with your child and use that as an avenue for them to ask questions and you to communicate with them.

    TV and/or video games should not be seen as babysitters for children, but should be used for the enjoyment and learning experiences they can give our children.
    - Updated: March 22, 2001

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    • James L Horwitz, MD

    David C. Thomas, MD

    Barbara Lindberg, PNP