which can become assimilated as a norm unless children learn to analyse and critique them.


7. When children are accessing social networks like face book or my space frequently their exposure to cyber bullying is greater. This form of bullying is especially invasive as they are not safe from it even in their own homes.


8. There’s a lot of violence in games–they can become inured to images of violence even if they distinguish between on-screen fantasy and real life (one of the arguments older children will put forward in defence of screen violence). The link between TV and violence is hotly debated but one experiment where toddlers attacked a doll with a hammer after viewing a similar scene on TV convinced Prof Robert Winston.


9. Much TV watching means a lot of exposure to advertising with related concerns about


consumerism and desire for foodstuffs which parents may not want their children to have.


10. Children can have trouble readjusting back to reality after watching TV. They can appear very dazed and be more likely to spill things or run into things after watching TV. It is alarming how they seem to turn into zombies.


The bottom line is screens are an easy choice for children - parents find if children ask for TV it is often code for “I’m bored, what can I do?” and in our world finding the time and the ability to find something relaxing to do is going to be a valuable skill !


By Elaine Halligan The Parent Practice www.theparentpractice.co.uk


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