Preschoolers and The Lure of the Media

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Preschoolers are much more interested in television and they become drawn to video and computer games, especially if they have older brothers or sisters. Children enjoy CD-ROMs and video games, and these activities encourage a certain kind of thinking. When fathers and kids have fun playing these games together, they can also be a good opportunity for father-child interaction.

However, preschoolers still need lots of hands-on play where they have to exercise their imaginations and make things happen in a more active way. And you also want to make sure the media is not replacing you. Time with you is much more valuable than time in front of the TV, the computer, or playing a video game. So it is important that you are in control of your child's use of media. Here are some ideas:

• set limits on the time they spend in front of a TV, on the computer, or playing video games
• be involved with them - know the games they are playing, the shows they are watching, etc.
• make sure you are active with your child away from the electronic gadgets
• be a positive role model in how you spend time on the computer and in the shows you watch when children are around
• be assertive in the limits you set for media use in your home
• check on the ratings of games, shows, and movies. Expose your child to what is appropriate for them - try to avoid: physical and verbal violence, crude language, alcohol and tobacco content, and sexual content
• examine the message the show or game is sending to the child

Remember, your preschooler is not able to distinguish reality from make-believe. What they see on TV is often what they think is real.