Should children be allowed to watch TV? What causes fatigue from watching TV or video in children?

The question of watching TV by young children plagues many parents, and for good reason. After all, we all very often hear about its harm to the health of children. But not everyone knows and remembers exactly what negative aspects can affect our children. Therefore, most fathers and mothers, at any opportunity, are ready to turn on their beloved child’s long-awaited cartoon or program.

Possible harm from TV

The impact of watching television sometimes occurs unnoticed by parents themselves. But if you don’t limit your child to cartoons, you shouldn’t be surprised if over time the baby begins to lag behind in speech development or becomes too impulsive in behavior. The opinion of psychologists and doctors on this matter is definitely not in favor of children spending their free time watching TV screens. And they have some good reasons for this.

Physiological. At an early age, up to 3-4 years, the child grows rapidly. It is at this time that vision is formed. Therefore, in the first years of a child’s life, his eyes are still very vulnerable. And while looking at pictures on the screen for a long time, which are constantly changing, children's vision is seriously strained. Hence, various visual impairments are possible when watching TV for a long time.
Psychological. As you know, at a young age, not only active physical growth occurs, but also the development of the child’s central nervous system. Due to her overload while watching cartoons, doctors also do not recommend watching cartoons up to 2, and, if possible, up to 3 years. The consequences of a central nervous system disorder sometimes manifest themselves in increased moodiness of the child and frequent tantrums or even aggression in the child. In such cases, it is better to exclude the TV completely.
Speech. In recent years, speech therapists and speech pathologists across the country have argued that cases of speech delay have become more frequent among modern children, and the range of speech disorders has expanded significantly. Moreover, defects in pronunciation are discovered only closer to 3-4 years. Children begin to speak later, because almost from the cradle they are accustomed to watching cartoons and playing on various gadgets. These entertainments completely replace educational games and live communication with peers.

At what age can children start watching TV and should they limit their viewing time?

For some parents, TV is a real salvation. Because it helps to cope with even the most naughty kids. While distracted by watching a favorite cartoon, it is easy to force a child to eat a whole bowl of healthy porridge or soup, as well as to be in peace and quiet for at least a few minutes.

But according to the advice of psychologists, physiologists and ophthalmologists, children under three years of age should not watch TV or various programs on a computer, phone or tablet at all. While the visual organs and psyche are being formed and the speech apparatus is actively improving, it is better not to interfere with these processes and not interfere with the natural development of the child.

And even with the onset of three years, you should not allow long-term overstrain of children’s vision and you should limit TV viewing to 40-50 minutes a day. In this case, the specified time is the maximum permissible, and not recommended for daily viewing.

Of course, it is easier to prohibit young children from watching TV. At the same time, it’s easier not to turn it on at all when the baby is awake. This way he won’t get used to cartoons and won’t demand them with screams and hysterics. But how to limit a 2-3 year old child when he is already smart enough and is able to press the treasured button on the television screen himself? There are several options here. If you are desperate to protect your growing son or daughter from the harmful influence of television, then you yourself will have to give it up for a while. To do this, it is enough to hide the TV in a place inaccessible to the child or completely disconnect the power from it.

Even if the harmful effects of watching TV on your child do not scare you, you should still turn on cartoons in doses and adhere to a few rules.

The television screen must be at least three meters away from the child's eyes.
The room should have good lighting. Avoid watching TV in the dark.
Always follow the theme of the cartoon or TV show. Avoid too aggressive or frightening scenes so as not to disturb the baby’s psyche.
Continuous TV viewing should not exceed 30 minutes. If your child stays longer than this time, be sure to take a break and change activities. For example, play active games or get creative.
For children from 3 to 7 years old, it is not advisable to watch TV for more than 50 minutes a day in total.

Each parent is responsible for the health and upbringing of their children. And the question of watching cartoons and TV programs is very important. Even if you decide not to forbid your child to watch his favorite cartoons, let them be kind and have a positive attitude.

Since television appeared in every home, debates have flared up around the blue screen - should a child watch it, at what age, what programs? Daria Vasilyeva discussed the most popular questions from parents with a psychologist Alina Shur and MGTS expert Tatiana Martyanova.

At what age can you start watching TV?

“Until one year, it’s better to completely exclude TV from a child’s life,” says Alina Shur. — The baby’s vision is just beginning to develop, so sudden changes in pictures and bright colors can harm him. Moreover, he simply does not understand what is happening on the screen and is more focused on sound. TV can be chosen as a leisure activity for a child at the age of 2–3 years. Just be sure to watch how your child reacts to what is happening on the screen. If he behaves inappropriately or becomes hyperactive while watching cartoons, it is better to replace such a pastime with something else.”

How long can you watch TV?

For children from 2 to 3 years old - no more than 15–20 minutes a day.
For children from 3 to 7 - 30 minutes a day.
Older children - no more than 40–50 minutes a day.

How close can a child sit to the TV?

The distance to the TV should be between 2.5 and 3 meters. The larger the screen size, the further the child should sit. At the same time, make sure that the baby is directly in front of the screen, and not at an angle.

How do you know that a channel can be watched by a child?

“Before turning on any channel for your child, study the content yourself,” answers the MGTS expert Tatiana Martyanova. — All programs and cartoons must have age markers: 0+, 6+, 12+, 16+ and 18+. They are created in order to protect the child from the negative influence of information. Also, pay attention that the channel contains not only cartoons, but also educational programs, where kids are explained what colors, volumes and sizes are, and older children are taught topics from school subjects and features of natural phenomena, and they talk about music and art.”

Non-children's content can always be restricted using the Parental Controls feature, which is either built into the TV or provided by your digital TV operator. If a child tries to switch to a channel with a prohibited age marking, the system will require you to enter a PIN code.

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Is it possible to reward a child with watching TV for good behavior?

You can, just do it right. How to do it: “Thank you for helping me wash the floors in my apartment. Let's watch a cartoon together." How not to: “Eat some soup and I’ll let you watch TV” - such wrong motivation can cause eating disorders.

How to choose the right cartoon for a child?

When choosing a cartoon, follow these rules:

The cartoon is appropriate for the child's age.
Transmits correct and understandable values, and does not encourage cruelty and aggression.
Develops, teaches new things and inspires useful actions.
There are no sharp frame changes or contrasting colors in the cartoon.
There are positive heroes who teach you to help and respect.

Are there any advantages to watching TV?

There are many educational programs on television that talk about complex issues in a fun way. Such programs develop the child’s horizons and complement the knowledge acquired at school or kindergarten.
The right favorite hero can inspire a child to become better, stronger and smarter.
Watching TV with parents and discussing what they see develops in the child the ability to clearly formulate his thoughts and analyze.
Beautifully drawn cartoons develop a child's sense of beauty.

Can TV negatively affect a child?

Watching TV for long periods of time damages your eyesight and leads to decreased physical activity, which can put you at risk of obesity.
If a child watches a lot of cartoons with violent scenes and negative characters who are not punished, he begins to think that this model of behavior is acceptable.
Incorrectly selected content on TV can lead to stunted child development. For example, if a 10-year-old child constantly watches Peppa Pig, which is more suitable for 3-year-old children.
Due to poorly translated films, incorrect words, accents and phrases may appear in a child’s speech.

Is it possible to leave a child alone with the TV?

It's better to watch TV with your baby. First, you will know what he is watching and will be able to control the content. Secondly, watching a cartoon or educational program with you will become many times more useful. If a child does not understand something, he can turn to you. After watching, be sure to ask your child whether he liked the film or not. What does he think, did this or that hero do the right thing? Discuss situations and characters, try to draw parallels with characters from other cartoons or real people. Encourage your child to express his opinion.

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I am a journalist, translator, certified yoga instructor. But, perhaps, to a greater extent, she is the mother of two beloved children. The “Unideal Parents” project is my attempt to find answers to my maternal questions. Due to my profession, I have the opportunity to communicate with specialists, masters of their craft. The results of our cooperation are on the pages of this site. I hope we answer your questions too...

Irina Krivich
Story for children “TV is my friend - TV is my enemy”

Story for children

« TV is my friend, TV is my enemy»

My name is Kirill. Actually, to be honest, they only call me that at home. Friends and acquaintances usually They say: “Kirya, hello!”. Even at school, I am Kirya! I'm used to it and I like it! I am 10 years old. I am in 3rd grade. I have many friends. We play sports, like to go to the movies, read books, and play outside!

But it wasn’t always like this... Once upon a time, everything was like this...

“Kirill, you came home from school an hour ago and haven’t eaten yet!”- Mom shouted from the kitchen.

"What are you doing?"- Mom asked.

"I'm watching TV!» - I answered her.

“Why, lying on the sofa?”- Mom continued.

“So comfortable to watch!”- I said. "It is forbidden! Your eyes will hurt. Look sitting!- Mom asked. But I didn't hear her. I watched the cartoon carefully. Then, a children's series. The actors played so captivatingly! The plot was very exciting! I forgot about dinner, that I had school tomorrow, and I didn’t do my homework... After all, I was alone at home. Mom went to work, and I didn’t notice her absence. Dad will come in the morning. He's a miner. So I was alone at home.

"It's only 7 pm"- I thought. I'll have time to do my homework! In the meantime, I’ll take a look at the water world! Then, I watched my favorite cartoon and concert. Fell asleep on the sofa. It was hard to wake up for school in the morning. Dad came home from work and woke me up. As usual, he said that you shouldn’t do that, that you should walk outside, play with other children, communicate….

But I answered: “TV is my best Friend!»

“You will become blind!”- Dad told me. But I was sure that everything was fine. That today I will definitely do my homework, help my mother with the housework, and take a walk outside.

This is how it was for a whole year. How many interesting things are shown on TV! Where

the largest mountain is located, why the wind blows, the river flows and much, much other.... And most importantly, I was firmly convinced that « TV is my best friend!»

But one morning I woke up and couldn’t open my eyes. I was very hurt. Tears flowed from them. They turned red. I didn't know what to do. How scared I was! Mom and Dad too!

I remember that day as the most terrible day of my life!

We were in the hospital for a long time. They put drops in me and looked at the fundus of my eyes. And according to

Tom is an ophthalmologist said:

“Baby, I’m very sorry, but your vision requires treatment. You didn’t take care of him.”

“Will I be blind now?”- I asked quietly.

"If you don't understand that TV is not only your friend, but also yours enemy, then the consequences could be the worst for you,” the doctor answered.

“Kirill, when was the last time you walked outdoors?”- asked the doctor.

"For a long time…"

“Do you often play with children on the street?”

"No…"

“Oh, what do you like to do other than watch TV?»

"Don't know"

“There are a lot of interesting things around. Try it if you want to preserve your eyesight, play sports, attend various clubs, and find friends!” - the doctor advised.

“But if you are still, you will continue to watch TV all day long, you will lose your vision completely. And I won’t be able to return it to you,” the doctor said very sternly.

“I promise that I will never watch too much or for a long time again. TV.

I will never sit close to him! I will never lie down and watch it!” - I whispered.

“You didn’t give your word to me, you gave your word to your vision, Kirill.”- with warmth in his voice

the doctor spoke.

A year has passed. I have many friends. We often go to the park and roller skate. Playing football! We visit various sections and clubs together! I enjoy coming to school! I have good grades. And most importantly, my vision became good again. I saved it!

Guys, I want you to read mine the story and remembered: « TV is not

only Friend, but also enemy! Remember this and follow the rules of a healthy lifestyle

life! I understood this forever!”

Publications on the topic:

Last week we had a theme week "Household Appliances". The topic is not easy, but the acquaintance with this generalizing concept was quite successful.

Conversation on life safety for children of the senior group Topic: “Fire is friend, fire is enemy.” Conversation on life safety for children of the senior group Compiled by teacher T.V. Mantula Topic: “Fire is friend - fire is enemy.” Program tasks: 1. Expand.

Consultation for parents “TV and its influence on the child’s speech” Every home has a TV, and without a doubt we can say that television has firmly entered our lives. Many of us, coming home, after.

Consultation for parents “Child and TV” Preschooler's addiction to television and how to avoid it. Children and TV - how much has been said and written on this topic. Remains unchanged.

Consultation for parents “Baby and TV” Sofa-remote-screen. In this "Bermuda Triangle" not only adults, but also children disappear. Don't let this happen to yours.

OOD on life safety “Is fire our friend or enemy?” OOD on life safety “Is fire our friend or enemy?” (senior group) Purpose: - to consolidate and clarify children’s knowledge that it is dangerous to play with fire; - secure.

Your child is too engrossed in television. How to distract him and switch him to something more useful?

How TV instills trust

Often parents turn on the TV themselves to entertain their child by watching TV programs. While the baby is looking at the screen with enthusiasm, you can cook dinner, tidy up the apartment, or, to be honest, sit with a cup of coffee in a secluded corner of the apartment.

To some, the TV problem may seem far-fetched. However, a large number of families have televisions and play an impressive role:

a unifying principle in front of which the family gathers;
kitchen attribute - perceived as a seasoning for food;
means of distraction - a way to relax and switch after work;
news source.

Watching TV in moderation is not scary. But it is often abused, and this happens in families:

where there are serious intra-family conflicts;
where parents are busy with hard, unloved work that requires deep distraction;
where parents do not have the time or desire to take care of their children;
where children have developed developmental difficulties that parents do not know how to solve;
where relatives have chronic diseases that force them to a sedentary lifestyle (in front of the TV).

TV still occupies the place of a “family fetish” - a “smart”, modern device with a wide diagonal is evidence of the wealth and well-being of the family.

Proven harm

A flickering screen with a kaleidoscope of colors and rapidly changing pictures is a serious strain on children's vision. Often, after watching TV programs for a long time, children have to be taken to an ophthalmologist who prescribes glasses for them.

If a child spends too much time in front of the TV, one hemisphere of the brain will develop more intensively, and the other, responsible for assimilating text, will not receive the proper load. Because of this, dyslexia can develop - difficulties with reading and writing.

Watching TV shows is a passive pastime; children do not get the physical activity they need. In addition, they do not sufficiently master gaming skills, so these children develop their imagination and creative activity much worse.

A large amount of time in front of the television screen is, most often, a substitute for the necessary parental love and attention.

In moderation - how much?

From 1.5 to 3 years - you can use the TV no more than half an hour a day. At the same time, cartoon plots should be strictly controlled by parents. They should have positive characters, and, preferably, not dumb ones, but leading dialogues or monologues. Child psychologists have a negative attitude towards “silent” characters, believing that they provoke a delay in the child’s speech development.

From 3 to 7-8 years old, viewing time should not exceed one hour.

In secondary school - no more than two hours a day.

No matter how much time you allow your child to spend in front of a screen, you should strictly adhere to safe viewing rules. The distance to the TV screen must be at least 5 diagonals. At the same time, you should not watch TV in the dark: the room should be comfortably lit.

What can children watch?

There will be greater benefit from viewing if parents not only carefully select cartoons and films, but also watch them with their child, and then work with the viewed material in ways that are appropriate to the child’s age: retelling, explaining, drawing based on what they saw, etc.

Children under three years old find it difficult to systematize what they see on the screen, as well as express the emotions that overwhelm them. Their parents should help them with this. You need to unobtrusively explain to the child what is shown on the screen. Preschool children can be asked questions about what is happening, such as: “why did this happen?”, “why did the hero commit this or that act?” Pay attention to the emotions your child shows while watching. It is recommended to pay special attention to episodes in which the child is frightened or upset by something. After watching it, it would be nice to discuss what you liked and what you didn’t like about the show. It is advisable to agree with the child that not only adults will ask questions, but he too. This option usually arouses great interest among children; they usually try to “catch” their parents for not being attentive enough.

Weaning tactics

If you realize that TV is disturbing your family, you can get rid of it or try less radical methods.

Watching TV doesn't have to be comfortable. There should not be a sofa in front of the TV; it should not be viewed from the bed. There should be not very comfortable, hard furniture in front of him.
You can cover the TV when it is turned off with a dark blanket so as not to remind you of its presence. Often on forums in parent discussions there is advice to remove the TV from the center of the room. Allegedly, then the child will pay less attention to him, and it will be easier for him to forget about him. No rational confirmation has been found for such proposals, but there is no harm from them, so why not try - move the TV out of sight to some less noticeable place.
Prohibit eating and drinking while watching TV, so as not to associate the pleasure of watching with delicious food.
Do not buy new TVs, do not be interested in new products in this industry. You cannot install TVs in all rooms; there should be no more than one TV per apartment, preferably an old model. You should not place a TV in the children's room: this will make it much more difficult for you to control the time your child spends watching.
You can wean off TV gradually. Let's say we reduce TV viewing by one hour a week. Next week – another hour, and so on until the time spent watching TV becomes acceptable for parents. Look for shorter cartoons in the program!
The TV should not be running in the background. It will be very difficult for a child to wean himself off the TV if it continues to work somewhere in the background.
It is necessary to try to make watching TV programs conscious. First, the whole family selects TV shows from the TV program that would be interesting to watch. Family viewings must strictly follow this plan. This method of weaning is more effective than simply reducing the time spent sitting in front of a television screen. The child must firmly know that television is not a means of thoughtless leisure, but an educational tool.
Teach your child to do something interesting or useful in the hours free from screen viewing.
If you yourself like to relax in front of the TV, then it’s difficult to expect that your child will want to go to his room instead of watching and do something else there. This means that in order to distract your child from the TV, you should captivate him with something else. Invite him to do something together. Here, each family must solve the problem in its own way. For some, additional clubs and sections for the child will be suitable, for others, daily long walks will be the solution. Some families will be able to develop a child’s interest in a hobby; it will be even better if it becomes common to the whole family. But many difficulties are expected at this stage, and you need to be prepared for them. Replacing bright and spectacular television content, created by professionals, is far from easy, but our decision to wean off is firm, which means we do not intend to retreat.