Mom versus Television – a parenting battle you aren’t ever likely to win. The other day, I found my kids gathered around the television (as usual). Contrary to how I generally react, I snuggled down next to them on the couch and started watching the Disney show that was on. I could feel their eyes on me for a couple of seconds and their minds wondering, ‘What has got into Mom today?’
Television can be a great way to have strong bonding experiences with your kids. Initially there may be some inevitable eye-rolling from your kids at the mere idea of family TV viewing, but eventually this idea can lead to fun family bonding times spent together in front of the idiot box, replete with jokes and laughter.
However, if you’re one of those moms who plan to convert TV time into an extended science lesson in disguise, then beware… Today’s kids are pretty smart and they’ll get the hint immediately. And there goes your idea down the drain!
So here’s what I’ve done: I’ve tried to transform our TV den into a family room of sorts. Each one of us in the family has contributed something to the décor of the room – my daughter (the aspiring artist) has her paintings up on the walls, my son’s toy cars are scattered all over the rug, my husband’s cherished sports trophies adorn the side cabinet and I’ve got my precious bonsai pots lined up near the sunny balcony. And we’re all set for happy evenings!
Television can be a great way to have strong bonding experiences with your kids. Initially there may be some inevitable eye-rolling from your kids at the mere idea of family TV viewing, but eventually this idea can lead to fun family bonding times spent together in front of the idiot box, replete with jokes and laughter.
However, if you’re one of those moms who plan to convert TV time into an extended science lesson in disguise, then beware… Today’s kids are pretty smart and they’ll get the hint immediately. And there goes your idea down the drain!
So here’s what I’ve done: I’ve tried to transform our TV den into a family room of sorts. Each one of us in the family has contributed something to the décor of the room – my daughter (the aspiring artist) has her paintings up on the walls, my son’s toy cars are scattered all over the rug, my husband’s cherished sports trophies adorn the side cabinet and I’ve got my precious bonsai pots lined up near the sunny balcony. And we’re all set for happy evenings!