I agree that it's each to their own. DD would've been around 2 when she started actually paying attention to TV shows rather than just having a little dance, watching a few seconds then nicking off to do something else. And even then it was only particular shows, mostly Hi-5, she hated Playschool and the Wiggles. But it never really was a big thing until she got hooked on Disney movies at about 4 or 5.
She mainly uses it to wind down before bed, and has a preference for quirky movies like Lemony Snicketts Series of Unfortunate Events or Corpse Bride these days (she's 9) and absolutely loves animal shows - we have just about the entire David Attenborough collection plus she likes Bondi Vet, RSPCA and that type of thing. Which I'm completely fine with and will often sit and watch with her. Heck even blood and guts doesn't bother her but she does get a little sad if an animal dies on the show.
So long as it's age appropriate and they still have all the other necessary interaction (outdoor play, social interaction etc) it's not really a bad thing. I don't think eating the main meal of the day in front of the TV is a good thing though - for us that's our chance to sit and talk about our day, teach DD proper table manners etc.
After a lot of delibation - TV is fine as one of your parenting tools. It lets you get some housework done (or even school work!). It can teach different concepts, or old concepts in a new way. It can cause a lot of laughter. Even as a baby, DS could stay up late for Dr Who, so there's family bonding going on (either that or I just love my Dr Who too much!). DS even has an exercise DVD that we do together, and our film nights are very much enjoyed by both of us.
I don't usually have TV all day (unless one of us is ill). We do other things too, outdoors and indoors. TV can go off. IMO, computer games are worse. But maybe because my 4yo DS likes them too much! What started off as an airport distraction (and restaurant distraction whilst waiting for food) is quickly demanded every day.
I wonder if her son has an ASD and she has just learnt to parent him this way because that's what works. I'd say the curtains closed and eating in front of the TV etc have been child led that she has gone with to get through the day.
My son became addicted to TV beyond what was "normal" for other children so we started curbing it. It's still a challenge and I let him watch too many clips sometimes just to have some peace. I worried I must have done something wrong at first then I realised it wasn't me, it was him IYKWIM.
Reply With Quote
Bookmarks