Tips for Your Child's TV Viewing
By SEEDLINGSGROUP
The American
Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under 2-years-old
should not watch any television and that
children over 2-years-old limit TV viewing to 1-2 hours of quality
television per day. However, it's often hard to figure out what
is high-quality television and what is not. Consider the
following tips as you make your own decisions about your
child's television viewing.
What: Content matters. Choose programs that are age-appropriate and interactive (Blues Clues and Dora are good examples, as is Sesame Street). It's better to watch a program that provides learning experiences in the context of the story rather than directive learning experiences. In other words, forget those TV shows that teach the ABC's and 123's by having children memorize them. Instead, choose programs where the ABC's and 123's are embedded in the story. It's far more effective to have your child look for objects on the screen a la Blues Clues than just parrot back what they see a la Baby Einstein.
How: Co-viewing. With the exception of those moments
when you just need a break, TV viewing is better when it's done
with a parent or caregiver. In fact, you can enrich your
child's experience by answering questions, expanding on
observations they make and tying what they see in with something
that has occurred in their daily life.
When: It is important to limit the duration of TV exposure and that includes background television. You have likely noticed that your young children's television viewing for longer than 30-60 minutes often results in tantrums and meltdowns. Try to get a sense of how long your child can handle successive television viewing so you know when to shut the TV off by their cues.
Not all TV is bad, however it is important to be mindful of what and how much TV our children watch.The Ultimate Family Vacation
DEBORAH CALMEYER, CO-FOUNDER, ROAR AFRICA
For an unforgettable getaway that offers tremendous learning opportunities for children (and adults) and unparalleled time together as a family, there is nothing like a safari. With boundless wildlife and sophisticated creature comforts, South Africa is just the place to go. And, South African Airways just launched a direct flight from NYC to Johannesburg, making getting there all the easier.
Two places in particular cater to children- Shamwari Private Game Reserve on the Eastern Cape and Lion Sands Private Game Reserve in Kruger. Shamwari's "Kids on Safari" program allows children as young as four to go on a family game drive to view the Big Five. A special children's counselor ensures that days are action packed with activities like visits to the Born Free Foundation and Shamwari's Wildlife Hospital, African bead making, working with clay, star-gazing and African storytelling.
Another fabulous kid-friendly destination is 1933 Lodge at Lion Sands nestled along the Sabie River in Kruger National Park. The only private villa in Kruger, 1933 can accommodate up to 8 children and 8 adults and comes equipped with a children's dormitory (with an adjoining room for a nanny or security), a private butler, cook and game ranger- the perfect set up for multiple families traveling together. In addition to the private pool and playroom, there are myriad activities to keep the children occupied and entertained while adults venture into the unspoiled wilderness.
So, grab the binos, your safari jacket and the family, and enjoy the trip of a lifetime on safari in South Africa.
For more information on these destinations or Roar Africa's services, please contact deb@roarafrica.com.
52 Mercer Street, 3rd floor ny, ny 10013 t: 212.334.5440 f: 212.334.5441
www.citibabes.com
