Can Toddlers Watch Television Sometimes?

Yes toddlers can watch TV sometimes; I would say getting addicted to the television is only wrong for watching TV within limits is advisable. I would say TV viewing is welcome provided it does not hinder the physical, mental and emotional development of a child.

Even toddlers can view television; there are lot of programs on television that help toddlers and children learn basic academic skills like ABC, fundamental of science, counting, addition, basic language skills and reading skills. Learning about the outside world is entertained when young children are introduced to shows with animals, distant lands, historical places and diverse lifestyle. It is also significant to note that a bit of TV watching daily provides a bit of recreation, in addition to giving parents some time to complete tasks that require an adult’s attention only. 

TV watching is desirable as we have seen, but it is best done with the following tips:

• It is said that it is good to not introduce chocolates to toddlers, unless he/she asks for it; the same applies to television that should preferably be introduced to children only after the second birthday. In the meanwhile it would be right to start off your baby on real life interactions that are so important for the physical, mental and emotional development of the child. If you must begin TV viewing for your toddler, be selective about the programs he/she views and limit the time of TV viewing to about 30 minutes or 1 hour only.  


• Be a smart parent by watching the shows before you allow your toddler or baby to watch it; be sure to note that it is a reflection of your family morals and values. In addition make sure that the shows do not contain violence or those topics that are not appropriate for children. Never assume your toddler can pick up moral values from shows that depict violence and conflict. Also be smart to also pay attention to commercials that are featured in between children shows; be sure your little one should or should not view them as commercials make for addictive habits in children.      


• A wise parent would choose only those shows that would help the development of the child; so choose only those programs that are best from the child’s perception point of view. It would also be best to build up a collection of educational videos that your toddler. In addition it would be best to watch the shows your child watches; make TV viewing an interactive session by inviting questions and answering them. Also point out interesting things for the child to observe and learn.

Last but most important, avoid putting the TV on when no one is watching it just for the sake of some backward noise; your baby could be exposed to something that is inappropriate. How your family should view TV should be a conscious decision and not one of default or accident.