As a parent, I’ve come to terms with my philosophy on television consumption. While many experts, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, warn against screen time—especially for younger kids—I find that this caution doesn’t apply to my older children, who are more than capable of selecting their own shows from the myriad remotes we have at home.
The narrative surrounding excessive TV watching has always seemed exaggerated to me. Sure, there’s plenty of subpar content out there, and some programs are definitely inappropriate for kids and teens. However, to dismiss television entirely would be a mistake. It’s a magical medium, bursting with creativity and storytelling, and I’m a staunch advocate for its merits.
Growing up, I often felt that TV was a significant part of my upbringing. I’ll admit it outright: shows like Star Trek and The Mary Tyler Moore Show played a crucial role in shaping my worldview. I was captivated by classics such as M*A*S*H, The Twilight Zone, and WKRP in Cincinnati. Even the less critically acclaimed shows—like The Love Boat or I Dream of Jeannie—held a special place in my heart. I didn’t just consume these programs; they were my companions through childhood and adolescence.
Of course, I understood their limitations. I knew that Bewitched was more fantasy than reality, and I often wondered why Samantha didn’t just use her witchcraft to make life easier for herself and Darrin. Yet, rather than diminishing my intellect, these stories enriched my imagination and provided valuable lessons.
Today, we are in a golden age of television, where renowned filmmakers create amazing series accessible through platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and more. My kids aren’t bound by traditional programming schedules and can explore a vast array of content without commercial interruptions.
My daughter, now 7, is enthralled with The Brady Bunch, while my 11-year-old son has recently dived into The X-Files. They enjoy shows tailored for their age group as well as timeless classics. Recently, my son expressed a desire to live in a town like that from Gilmore Girls, which made my heart swell with pride. When they choose shows that I deem acceptable—those that don’t involve excessive characters like Dora or over-the-top antics from Adam Sandler—I often join them in front of the screen.
Television expands their horizons beyond our immediate environment, allowing them to explore diverse stories and experiences. While I may occasionally suggest they take a break from sitting, I would never label TV as the enemy; it’s an enriching experience that I wholeheartedly support.
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In summary, my perspective on TV time is one of positivity and acceptance. I believe that, when approached thoughtfully, television can be a beneficial part of our children’s lives.
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