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In an effort to prevent childhood obesity in her own family, Michelle Obama recently admitted to making some changes in her household, like having more fruits and vegetables around, eating more home-cooked meals, and limiting desserts to weekends. She also "made sure (her kids, Sasha, 8 and Malia, 11) were exercising; at least moving around every day, so no TV during the week."
No TV during the week? Really?
The First Daughters won't be alone, since from April 19-25, the TV Turnoff Network is hosting "National TV Turnoff Week." One of the main goals of the Turnoff Network is to show parents and families that watching television doesn't have to be a daily activity. With a recent study revealing that our children consume an increased amount of media each day, I certainly think this is a good time for the campaign, and applaud Mrs. Obama's efforts in her own home on that front. But for most families -- mine included -- it's unrealistic.
Yes, TV is a sedentary activity. Yes, our children could be using the time to do something more active or of more value, but do we need to shut the tube off all together? There are times when the TV is my family’s friend. When we’re winding down at night, we snuggle in my bed and calmly watch a show. On Saturday mornings -- before those of us over 30 even wake up -- the TV is great at distracting my children from barreling into our bedroom at 6 a.m. I understand that we need to cut back -- I’m as guilty as the next mom. But TV isn’t all bad... or is it?
Here are some suggestions from the TV Turnoff Network on how to better spend your TV watching time, and you can get 12 more ideas from iVillage here.
1. Put together a puzzle.
2. Visit the library. Borrow a book. Attend library activities.
3. Go ice skating or roller skating.
4. Listen to the radio.
5. Visit the zoo.
6. Paint a picture, a mural or a room.
7. Find out about your area's community center or park's activities.
8. Read a book aloud to your younger sister/brother.
9. Volunteer for a community organization or charity.
10. Play with your pet.
11. Write a letter to a friend or relative.
12. Start a neighborhood basketball, soccer, or kickball game. 13. Go through your closets and clothes. Donate surplus items to Goodwill, the Salvation Army or a local rummage sale.
14. Start a diary/journal.
15. Go to a museum.
16. Play cards.
17. Make up a story and write it down.
18. Ask an older family member to tell you a story about his or her childhood. Write about it.
19. Learn some new riddles or jokes.
20. HAVE A PARTY TO CELEBRATE A TV-FREE WEEK.
So, do you think your family can last a TV-free week or is staging a boycott by going to Sesame Street more your style? Let us know!
PLUS:
From iVillage Health: U.S. Kids Using Media Almost 8 Hours a Day
Do you think you'll able to turn off your TVs for an entire week? Chime in below!
