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Blogs by James L. Beverly
It's Getting Worse!!!! 8/7/2008 5:21:47 AM
I could not believe the commercial aimed at parents that I saw on television last night. It showed two children parked in front of the TV as their parents were walking out the door (dressed for a night on the town). As they walked out, the father turns around and says "now don't forget to practice your video games tonight!".
Just another of the "you don't have to get involved - just get your kid this knowledge based gadget" ads - this one was just a little more up-front.
Is it really any wonder that our kids are losing interest in reading? Or visiting bookstores? Or spending any time really discussing things that are important to them with thier parents? We see the sad results of this in the news every day. The parent with the shocked look who says "I had no idea my child was doing those horrible things." Really? When was the last time you spent any time thinking about what your child might need FROM YOU as opposed to the self-centered "What about me! Don't I deserve....." that I hear so often from distressed parents.
Take some time out. Everyone can find 1 half hour during the week to spend talking to - or maybe actually reading and discussing - a story with your child. Hint: Try turning off the TV for just 1/2 hour some evening. You may find your own life is actually more interesting than the made-up ones that you see on the TV screen.
Also - before you select a book or story - read it first and then ask yourself the question "is there something in this story that I would really want to discuss with my child - something that might be beneficial to him/her?"
If the answere is "not really" - choose another book.
