There is no getting away from having a television at home, unless you are prepared to sacrifice your own viewing time. Unfortunately, a TV can become such a pull in the house that your little one may very well become addicted to it.
You can tell your child is a TV addict if you catch them sitting for hours on end watching the box, no matter what’s on; thankfully, there are ways you can stop it taking over completely.
Prepare them for what is happening
Before you switch off the TV and tell your little one that that’s the end of their unlimited viewing time, inform them what’s happening first. Expecting them to go cold turkey is neither fair nor a good idea - you wouldn’t like it if someone did the same to you. About a week before switch off, tell your kids what’s about to happen. This way they can prepare themselves and hopefully there will be less whining, although that is probably just wishful thinking.
Tell them why
Telling them why it’s time to curb the TV habit can help them see the reason behind your madness. While there will be arguing and moaning, big kids are able to process the fact that too much TV is not good and that it’s important to have other interests.
Write up a chart
Charts are a great away to help kids understand what is happening and for them to get involved in the process. You can call it the 'TV reduction chart' and on it write down the days and times that your kids are allowed watch TV. Get the whole family involved, remember, you’ll probably have to change your own habits. Don’t forget to schedule in their favourite programme at least once a week, they will thank you for it and it’s nice to be nice.
Stick with it
No matter how much they may whine and moan make sure you stick with your plan. There are bound to be a few tantrums as the changes take place but hopefully they will become the norm in the household - eventually. Remember, it takes time to change a habit so don’t expect it to happen overnight.
Break your own habits
Kids learn from you so make sure you are limiting your own viewing times. Avoid switching the television on as soon as you walk in the door and if there is nothing on, switch it off. It can be hard, especially if you have become accustomed to doing these things on a daily basis, but at least show your kids that you are making the effort.
