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PrintParent to Parent: Too Much TV
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Ivonne Amor
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As the school year winds down, you can be sure many students will be spending this summer in front of the TV. But if you want to make sure kid doesn't become a couch potato, there's plenty of ways to prepare. In tonight's Parent To Parent, Dr. Debbie shows us how to "channel" your children's other interests.
WSVN -- Like millions of us across the country, the tersh family enjoyed watching American Idol together.
But now that summer's here, 10 year old allison is looking forward to seeing what else is on t-v.
Kristen Tersch: "I can think of some days when she's bored she might plunk in front of it a little bit more and then we'll have to maybe search for some activities to keep her a little bit busy."
According to Dr. Debbie, the best way to keep your kids busy is to find an outdoor activity they enjoy.
It's especially important to try to enroll them in a summer camp or program so they can interact with other children."
Dr. Debbie Glasser: "Be your child's guide, cue into their interests, talk to them, learn what's interesting and meaningful to them and then help them discover those things."
Also use the TV to your advantage.
Find out what shows your child likes and encourage them to read about related topics.
In some cases, you can even use TV to tap into a new hobby.
Dr. Debbie Glasser: "For example if you have a child who seems interested in art, get some art supplies this summer, whether it's playdough for the younger kids or some you know, chalks and charcoals for the older kids, so that they can find ways that are unique for them, and meaningful for them, to fill their time."
As for how much TV is too much...
Dr. Debbie: "There is some popular wisdom that says less is more. Ultimately, it's up to parents based on their children's ages and based on their unique family values to know what's going to be the most appropriate for them."
That's why you need to set limits for what type of shows they can watch and how much they can watch.
Of course, if you really want to get involved, you can always watch programs together.
That's what the tersch family does... At least when they're not too busy outdoors.
Kristen Tersch:: "We're blessed with a block of kids and families. We're all very close, the kids are outside playing, she's swimming, etc., rollerblading, whatever activities it is."
IF YOU HAVE A CONCERN DR. DEBBIE CAN HELP YOU WITH E-MAIL US AT:
parent@wsvn.com
DR. DEBBIE GLASSER'S WEBSITE:
newsforparents.org