As a parent, you always monitor what your child eats as well as the other activities they do. But what about the programs they watch on TV? Help them choose the right programs by making them know which TV programs are fit for them.

Selecting the right program for your kid may be quite a challenge, especially with the fact that children cannot distinguish commercials from TV programs. However, you have to know how TV affects your child's life.

The American Academic of Pediatrics said that children must have only two hours of TV time daily. This is to give way to play time, which is necessary in developing their social, mental and physical skills.

Parental judgment vs. v-chip rating systems

The v-chip is a computer device operated via a remote control that blocks programs in accordance to its ratings. As effective as it can be in blocking TV shows inappropriate for children to watch, it has flaws in discerning programs that have educational significance. Therefore, it is up for the parents to find out if such a kiddie program contains violence that may be harmful for the child.

Monitor their TV viewing hours

Take note how much viewing time your family spends in front of the TV. Tell them which programs are worth watching and which are not. When they are not spending time in front of the TV, make them do other worthwhile activities.

Know what the programs in the TV

Be informative regarding the list of TV shows especially their reviews. Know what is recommended for children from teachers an pediatricians. Programs that allow the development of other skills like reading or other indoor or outdoor hobbies are best suited for children.

Moreover, go for programs that have educational content and promote positive values. According to research, children who watch educational shows like Sesame Street develop abilities, both verbal and mathematical.

You can also go online on http://www.pbs.org/ and find out what are the best programs for children.

TV hours, responsibilities and quality time

As much as possible, never allow your children to watch TV unless they are done with their homework or chores. Also, make them responsible enough right away after watching TV.

Make it a point to watch TV together to show that you care. This even provides quality time for you and your child. If they are busy enough in doing something else, record the shows that you recommend for them and watch it later.

Ask and share your views about the programs they watch

Engage them into a discussion about the programs they watch. Ask them what they learned and why they liked about the character. Be open about your views if you are offended by a program.

If it is contains violence or other things that are contrary to your values, allow them to take interest in what they have seen on those quality shows. This will help in the further developing of their interest educational activities.