Video:How to Screen Television Shows for Kids
with Kathy MooreWith so many programs airing on television, making appropriate viewing choices for your children can be difficult. Find out how to screen television shows for different ages before you tune in.See Transcript
Transcript:How to Screen Television Shows for Kids
Hi I'm Kathy Moore for About.com. Navigating today's multimedia world can be difficult for parents. This program offers some tips on choosing TV programs and videos that are both educational and appropriate for children.Many parents already limit the amount of time their children spend in front of the TV, but time limits are only the beginning. It is important to know what your children are watching and to help them develop good media viewing habits.
Television Ratings for Children
Broadcast and cable TV programs offer a ratings service that appears during the first 15 seconds of each program. You can also find the ratings in published TV listings.The ratings are divided into 6 groups:
- TV Y for children of all ages
- TV Y7 is directed to older children
- TV G for general audiences
- TV PG Parental guidance
- TV 14 Parents strongly cautioned
- TV MA for mature audiences only
Use TV Parental Controls
Another way to screen out unwanted programming is through the use of the V chip or other parental controls. These controls are an effective way to prevent children from viewing unwanted programming when you are not able to supervise their viewing.Screen Television Shows Before Viewing
It is important to know however that just because a program may contain a rating suitable for children, it might not be appropriate for your child. My kids are afraid of snakes and any show about snakes, no matter how educational would not be right for my kids.Watch Television Together
When possible, it is a good idea to sit down and watch TV with your kids so you can monitor and discuss the content with them. Remember not all children's programs are educational. While there is nothing wrong with pure entertainment, if you are trying to limit TV viewing, why not help your child choose programs that are fun to watch and educational too.Like so many other aspects of parenting choosing appropriate TV programs for your children takes some time but it is worth the extra effort. Thanks for watching. To earn more, visit us on the Web at About.com.
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