When it comes to our kids and television, it can feel as though we’re fighting a constant battle. In the modern age, it wouldn’t be fair to say TV is a no-go altogether. This would exclude them from many conversations with their friends. Not to mention that television does have some fantastic educational benefits. By watching, kids stand to develop empathy, imagination, and new skills.
But, there’s no getting past the fact hours in front of the television are no comparison to time spent outside. We all remember the days of our childhoods when we went out to play in the evenings. It kept us fit and healthy and helped us unwind. And, the majority of us wish our kids would do the same thing. But, with the call of countless television channels, playing out is fast becoming a thing of the past. In fact, most kids are more likely to message their mates on their phones than knock and ask them to play.
If you’ve been fighting this battle for a few years by now, it’s likely that you’re about ready to give up the struggle. Surely television has won? It’s about time you rolled over and accepted that fate. Or is it? We have a suggestion for one last trick which could win you the battle once and for all. Instead of trying to get kids away from the set, why don’t you use their program choices to encourage them outside? Sitting down and switching to some programs could have the desired effect. But, what programs should you be switching to? Let’s find out.
Documentaries
Documentaries are fantastic for expanding our knowledge of and desire to experience the world. This is especially the case with nature documentaries. As such, you can be sure that sticking one of these on with your kids in the room could have the desired effect. Often, we forget in the modern age to pay enough attention to the amazement of nature. But, nature documentaries like those mentioned on www.parentmap.com could be the perfect thing. Bear in mind that you might want to watch any such programs through first. Some do involve scenes which could cause distress. But, programs which focus on plants and the behavior of animals are sure to create curiosity in your kids. And, that curiosity could make itself known in them taking to the garden to explore.
Sports
Have you driven yourself mad wondering how you can get your kids interested in football? Or any sport for that matter? All you want is them to get into the habit of something which keeps them moving, right? Well, we may just have the answer for you. Instead of forcing them outside to play half-hearted games, why not see if they enjoy watching sport on television? By investing in the sport packages from cable companies like optimum.com, you can be sure there will always be a wide array of options for them to choose from. Whether they take a shining to basketball or soccer, your job will be done. In fact, you can be sure that they won’t stay inside for long once they’ve chosen a team to support. Instead, they’ll want to head out and play like their favorite sports heroes. And, all without you nagging them to do so. All you need to do is stock up on the right sports gear so that they can start playing the moment they catch the bug. You may even find that they ask to join clubs and groups for their chosen sport. And, that’s a sure sign you’ve managed to create a habit that can stick. Bet you didn’t think that would happen when you had to force them out the door, did you?
Crafts
It’s a known fact that kids have a natural curiosity when it comes to crafts. In fact, when they were young enough, it’s likely they jumped at the chance to get mucky. Now, though, you can’t remember the last time they enjoyed making something outside of school. How could they even fit crafting sessions into their days when there’s so much television to watch? The good news is, there are programs for this, too. Options like ‘Hands on Crafts’ are sure to reignite that need to create in your children. And, by stocking up on supplies like those mentioned on sites such as artfulparent.com, you can be sure they can get started as soon as they feel the need. Even if their craft sessions don’t take them outside, this is a healthy way to keep them active and engaged. And, again, it gets them away from the television. Isn’t that the main thing that matters? Bear in mind that you don’t have to stick with the limited kids craft programs out there. Cookery shows could also work, as long as you’re willing to let kids loose in your kitchen.
Something for you
Of course, you sometimes have to fight dirty to win your battles. And, that could mean putting on ‘boring’ programs that you like to watch so that your kids go elsewhere. This is good a few ways. For one, it teaches about the importance of sharing. Don’t you have as much right to watch shows as they do? What’s more, they’re much more likely to head outside when nothing’s going on in the house. That’s not to say, of course, that you should do this all the time. But, this could be the ideal way to tell them they’ve had enough television today without arguing about it. Instead, give them a choice to stay and watch, but make sure you choose something they’re sure not to enjoy. Soap operas are always a good bet here, as are period dramas and the like. Kids rarely become engaged with programs like these, so you can rest easy that they won’t stick around for long. Don’t feel guilty about this, either. When there’s no other choice, they may find that entertaining themselves outside is easier than they realized.
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