TV Activities

Alyssa Jensen, Utah

It’s so easy to let the television be the babysitter. When I became pregnant with my second child, I didn’t have the energy to keep up with my toddler. But I worried that excessive viewing time might affect his overall development. So I developed a plan that can work for children of all ages.

First I started to actively watch television programs with my son. I noted which things genuinely interested him and which things simply kept his attention. I then made a list of activities we could do that centered on his interests. He loved shapes, letters, numbers, and colors, so we started going on “shape searches,” “letter hunts,” and so forth. To enhance our interest activities, I made a few sensible purchases and checked out items from the public library.

I also made a list of shows that benefited my son; that way I could limit his overall TV time to worthwhile programs.

As for parents, it’s ever important to be a good example. I try to spend what little free time I have productively, enjoying physical activities, reading, or learning a new skill. If my children watch anything, I’d rather have them watch Mom.