Are children today exposed to too much media, too young? A group of experts convened by the National Institutes of Health discussed the matter today, and came to no firm conclusions. Most seemed to agree that content, limited quantity, and parental involvement were central in ensuring children get the most out of any TV or videos they do watch.
Seems reasonable, though it’s hardly new advice. Balance in all things. We don’t ban television in our house, but we do limit it, and try to be in the room rather than use it as a babysitter. My solution for how to make dinner with a toddler in the house? Don’t sit them down in front of the television—have them help.