According to a 2010 Kaiser Family Foundation survey, children and teenagers now spend more than 7 hours a day using some form of media—more time than on any other activity apart from sleeping.
With technology on the rise, the media are constantly finding more ways to enter our lives and our childrens' lives through mobile phones, iPods, computers and television. As well as limiting screen time, restricting viewing material and avoiding unnecessary exposure to advertising, the most useful tool that parents can give their children is media literacy—knowledge of how media works and how to minimise the negative effects on children from television. As they grow into adulthood, it is becoming ever more essential that kids be equipped with the skills to withstand the adverse effects of mass media consumption.
So how can parents teach their children to become more savvy consumers of media?
Advertising
Studies have shown a direct link between television consumption and childhood obesity, caused in part by excessive exposure to junk food advertising. Early exposure to advertising can also contribute to feelings of low self worth and insecurity in children as it teaches them to measure happiness by material possessions rather than other, more meaningful criteria.
Children as young as preschool age can be taught to recognize TV advertising for what it is. Commonsense Media suggests parents of 3-5 year olds help their children learn to recognize the difference between content and commercials, and how to identify the product the advertisers are trying to sell. As children get older, parents can discuss more complex issues, such as the techniques advertisers use to gain their attention and how branding works. As advertising looks set to get more and more invasive, equipping young people with awareness and skills to counteract the messages thrown at them by advertisers is a valuable skill which will benefit them in the long run.
Violence
The effects of media violence on children has been much debated over the years with studies showing a direct link between violent television and video game consumption and increased aggression in later life.
Talking with children and criticizing violent images on television can help reduce interest in media violence and aggressive attitudes as children get older. In kids' movies and cartoons, violence is often depicted as being consequence free, so it's important for parents to discuss the real-life consequences of violence and help kids brainstorm for alternative ways to solve problems.
Stereotyping
One of the most insidious effects of media consumption on children can be the perpetuation of common social stereotypes, particularly around race and gender. This can lead to many problems, from body image issues to limited perceptions of gender roles and ethnic groups.
Pointing out specific instances of stereotyping can help children become aware of how gender is portrayed on television. It is also helpful to make sure kids are exposed to a more balanced and realistic view of society through books and television programs that show a wide variety of people behaving in non-stereotypical ways.
The most important thing is that parents monitor and are involved in their child's media use, and that they take the time to talk to their children about what they are viewing. Teaching children to challenge and question what they see on TV can help them become confident and critical thinking adults.
Sources
Anna Milward - Anna is a freelance writer and mum of two living in Sydney, Australia
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