The AAP recommends that children over the age of 2 should be limited to 1-2 hours of television per day.  The average child, also according to the AAP, watches at least 4 hours of television a day.  How can you cut down television for your child?  It will take a family effort.

Begin by setting a good example and limit your own television habits.  Children learn best by example so avoid turning on the television first thing in the morning, and turn it off when there is nothing on that you specifically want to watch.  In many households, the television is constant background noise.  Watch with more thought and only use the television when absolutely necessary.

Try limiting the television to weekends only. During the week, school and work (plus after school activities) take a big chunk of the day already.  If your family watches several hours of television at night, then you are missing out on a lot of family time.  Turning off the television during the weekdays will help you build a stronger family bond.

Treat television as a reward instead of a constant in your child’s life.  Their favorite television programs can be used as a reward for good behavior, like chores and homework completed.  Stock plenty of non-electronic activities in your home such as puzzles, games, books and magazines so your child has fun alternatives.

It may be hard at first to alter your family’s television habits.  But in the long run it is better for family bonding and the welfare of your child.