Entertainment and Your Kids

Published by julia | Filed under Miscellaneous, Shout Outs

Even without conducting scientific studies and surveys, we have all come to recognize the influence of media, particularly entertainment, on our lives. What’s more troubling is that extreme violence and overtly sexual content are quite prevalent in television and movies today and some have grown quite complacent about it. But make no mistake, kids are indeed more receptive to this influence, owing to their age and impressionability. But there are some ways for you and your family to combat the negative effects of entertainment and steer your young ones from unsuitable programs.

First option: censorship. The parental control feature in computers and televisions was installed for very good purpose—use it. There is no reason for you to exercise some parental will and prevent your children from seeing programs and websites that should be viewed by adults only. Charity is not the only value that begins at home, so does having the sense to know what is appropriate or not. The moment we let our kids take total control on what they see, we give them the message that we really don’t care what kind of programs they watch. And that’s the worse kind of message to give them.

Another way to lessen the influence of media on your kids is to encourage them to take up hobbies, preferable an activity that takes them outdoors. This option is not only healthy, it also widens their consciousness and awareness on the kind of entertainment that is totally different from what is provided by the boob tube or the information highway. And if your kid isn’t the sporty type, encourage him or her to take up reading, painting, or any activity they might be interested in and develop passion for. The key here is to introduce another means of entertainment and socialization other than watching television or surfing the internet. When they are mature enough and have kids of their own, they’ll surely understand why.

Of course, don’t just let your kids be immersed in an activity without you taking an active role in it. Take some time off yourself and spend it with your family to bond and enjoy moments together. Most kids would willingly give up watching television or surfing the net to spend some quality time with mom and dad, somewhere outside the home. This is also one way of strengthening family relationships, something that would influence them way more significantly that any form of entertainment.

Entertainment can also be enjoyed by the whole family, whether it’s watching TV or going to the movies. Cultivate open communication between you and your kids so they will feel free to talk to you about anything. This helps lessen outside influence, as you encourage your kids to discuss things that matters to their young lives. Always remind them what they see in movies or online do not always apply to ordinary lives. As a parent, you also have the obligation to understand the things that entertain them and allow them freedom to express their opinion freely. It would not also hurt for you to tell them your fears and worries regarding the kind of TV programs and films being produced today. Let them understand that entertainment media may be prevalent these days but it is always up to the individual to choose what is suitable to see and what is not.