Recommendation 3
Decrease exposure to violence and too much media
Media can be fun and educational
Media should be age appropriate
Reasons to Limit Exposure to Violence in the Media
It increases hurtful behavior
It causes children to be less caring
Unrealistic follow up information about the people involved
Young children do not know the difference between real and pretend
Remind children that, in real life, people are hurt
If given the choice, many children will watch too much media
Teach your child to have a well-balanced life
“If all you do is watch media, I am not being a responsible parent.”
Balance screen time with other activities
Having real world experiences such as going to the park
Talking with family and friends
Playing
Being creative
Reading for pleasure, both alone and with your child
Helping with chores
Exercising - consider at least one hour each day
There is no “right amount of screen time”
Real world experiences are best
Do not allow unlimited access to media devices
Reasons to not allow unlimited access in the bedroom
More time with family
It is hard to know what your child is watching
Better grades
Prevent sleep problems
Obesity
For children with behavior problems, reasons why media should be limited
They need extra guidance
Media distracts both you and your child