One More Reason to Turn Off the TV (By Elizabeth)
Dr. Mel Levine, my hero when it comes to authors of parenting books that actually help, suggests another reason why TV shows harm our children's minds.
"Kids need to learn how to delay gratification, but many TV shows resolve everything nearly instantly and effortlessly. Even news programs tend to dole out information in tiny chunks. ... The ability to delay gratification while reading or listening demands sustained attention."
But it's not only TV shows that demonstrate immediate gratification. Video and computer games also provide high-intensity experiences that, if steps are followed correctly, provide pleasure in short order. Reading a book becomes drudgery when fulfillment arrives only at the end of the final chapter.
Perhaps if I spend this week reading a book in front of my children or, better yet, reading a book TO my children, the concept of delayed gratification will begin to make sense to them. Well, it's worth a try.
For more solid advise from Dr. Mel Levine, read his book The Myth of Laziness. Check it out from the library or purchase from www.amazon.com.
