Letters to the Editor
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Maybe moderation isn't so great
Several letter-writers chimed in with a sentiment that, at first glance, seems very reasonable: sure there's no benefit to watching TV, but it's probably not harmful either, so why not let kids watch 30 minutes or an hour a day?
I have a problem with this argument. First, as yet other letter writers pointed out, TV is there because it serves the purposes of advertisers. Even children's programs on public TV serve as long advertisements for character toys and other junk. Why let your child be manipulated into wanting things that he or she really doesn't need in order to be a happy, engaged, learning individual? Why set yourself up to be whined into buying this sort of crap?
Second, there's no denying that TV can be a pleasurable experience. But it is rarely satisfying in the way a good book is. It cannot compare to the experience of doing something difficult or constructive or even just useful, and feeling the sense of accomplishment from that. Having the TV on, whether it is the parents, siblings or the child who is watching, decreases the amount of time in which these other rewarding experiences can occur. That can't be good.
Third, you could argue that very young children (say, less than 2.5) are easily overruled when they ask for TV merchandise, and they aren't going to be reading on their own. But they WILL be running around interacting with their environment (including looking at picture books) if they are not watching TV. And if they are watching TV, they are forming a habit that will last a long time, and will be very difficult for parents to break later.
If you don't want your kids to be brainwashed, and if you'd rather they develop character than be defined by what they consume, turn the TV off and keep it off.