Television | Overview

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Television - Overview

Forty-eight per cent of Canadian kids, aged 8 -15, have their own TV and 35 percent have their own VCR.

(Source: Kids' Take on Media, Canadian Teachers’ Federation, 2003)
Most of us have happy memories of watching television with our families when we were young. But what was once a simple shared pastime has become an increasingly complex—and sometimes problematic part of modern family life.

Instead of two or three stations we now have hundreds, with shows for every taste and interest.

This increased selection means that there are fewer opportunities for the whole family to sit down and enjoy a show together. Watching television has become a more solitary activity and less shared time means that parents are less able to monitor what their kids are watching.

The sections below offer practical tips on managing TV in the home, teaching kids to think critically about what they see on TV, and minimizing the negative influences of television.

THE ISSUES

The Good Things About Television

Kids can learn a lot from television, if parents are involved in their kids' viewing habits.

Television's Impact on Kids

A look at the issues of concern to parents: age-inappropriate content, violence, and the "too much TV" dilemma.

Special Issues for Young Children

How young is too young to watch TV? Managing superhero play and helping young children to distinguish fantasy from reality.

Special Issues for Teens

Sexual content in prime time is on the rise, and parents worry that values absorbed from TV can be at odds with family values.

GETTING INVOLVED

Understanding Television Rating Systems and Codes

Learn what the TV ratings mean and the guidelines Canadian TV broadcasters have to follow.

Managing Television in the Home

Take control of your family's viewing habits with these strategies for different ages.

Talking to Your Kids About Television

Use TV to help your kids learn to think critically. This section contains tip sheets on talking to kids about everything from stereotypes and violence to TV news.

Taking Action

Voicing your opinion to the TV industry, promoting parent education through your school council, and organizing a TV Turnoff Week in your home or community.