Television viewing is a major activity and influence on children. They will have spent more time watching television than they have in the classroom. It takes them away from important activities such as reading, school work, playing, exercise, family interaction, and social development.The question is, are there profits of watching television or just merely ruthless effects.
NEGATIVE: TV programs have negative impact on children. They affect the behaviour of child the most. Programs are based on the perceptions like divorce, crime, murders etc; which can have a very bad influence on child’s mind. At times, undesirable thoughts may start coming to their mind which can distract their attention from studies and force them to do unwanted things. It can create disorder in child’s life and make his or her life stressful.Watching TV for longer time can also worsen child’s health.They are influenced by the thousands of commercials seen, many of which are for alcohol, junk food, fast foods, and toys.
POSITIVE:Some good TV programs have moral effects on children. In fact TV shows for children on some channels like Discovery or National Geographic Channel can upsurge child’s awareness. Such knowledge is a must have in this competitive age. There are also some TV programs which help children comprehend the significance of proper nutrition, health and exercise. Apart from that, children also learn a lot of things which are useful in their academic and future life. They can also watch quiz contests which increase their general knowledge. Some TV programs also offer opportunity to prove child’s talent in dance, acting, painting, win scholarships etc; which can prove advantageous for child.
In addition, parents can help by doing the following: don’t allow children to watch long blocks of TV, but help them select individual programs. Choose shows that meet the developmental needs of your child. Set certain periods when the television will be off. Study times are for learning, not for sitting in front of the TV doing homework. Meal times are a good time for family members to talk with each other, not for watching television.
Television can be a very influential and effective learning tool for children if used wisely. It can help young people discern where they fit into society, develop closer relationships with peers and family, and impart them to apprehend complex social aspects of communication.
By: Loureline C. Reyes | Teacher II | Lamao National High School | Lamao, Bataan
