The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting your children's television viewing to one to two hours of educational programming each day. If your children spend considerably more time watching favorite shows and neglecting activities such as doing homework or playing outside, develop a game plan to curb the TV viewing in your home.
Set Ground Rules
If your children resist reducing their television time, establish a schedule that dictates when and how long they can watch. The University of Michigan Health System website suggests limiting television viewing to one hour on school days and reducing the privilege to one-half hour or taking it away completely if your children need to improve their grades. Keep the TV set off during meals and homework time. Avoid using the television as "background noise" or as a way to distract children while you're busy with activities around the house.
Increase Activities
Curb the television habit by involving your children in activities to keep their minds off favorite shows. If the school they attend doesn't offer extracurricular activities such as sports, band, drama or clubs, sign your children up for classes at a community recreation center. Choose classes such as photography, dance, karate, painting or cooking that will allow your children to develop a new hobby that will cut into their daily television viewing.
Change Family Habits
The Weight Control Information Network suggests adjusting your television habits to set a good example. Turn off the television and invite the children to read books with you or play a board game. Make a family pact that rewards your reduction in television viewing with a trip to the park, a new board game or an ice cream run on the weekend.
Tape Favorite Shows
Instead of letting your children watch television as a daily habit, the Kids' Health website suggests banning it during the week and using it as a treat on weekends and holidays. If your children have favorite shows, record them to watch together on the weekend. This will not only allow you to ensure they're watching quality programming, but also allow you to stop the show midstream to discuss any controversial or violent images.
Manage the Gadgets
Take control of the television equipment if your children aren't conforming to the new rules. Remove the sets from their bedrooms to prevent the children from watching on the sly. Place the television in a central location where you can monitor its use. If you have younger children, prevent them from using the television by hiding the remote control or unplugging the set. Block older children by using parental lock settings to disable the kids' favorite channels.
