Positive Media Influences on Kids

Education

• Media can provide education for kids. While many kids are reluctant to pick up an extra textbook or schoolbook while not at school, they might be more than happy to watch TV shows or online learning programs. From these shows kids can learn subjects like math, science and reading while being entertained. Sesame Street and Mister Rogers are known for educational value, but there are many more programs that also are educational. As well, the Internet will likely be a big part of a child's future for school, work and personal life, so becoming knowledgeable regarding the Internet and the resources it provides can help them later in life.

Diversity

• Media often teaches kids diversity. Many TV shows and films aim to have a diverse cast, showing people of all races and backgrounds interacting and enjoying each other's company. Seeing this reinforces for children that everyone should be treated equally, and they can find friends in any group of people, no matter the background from which the person comes.

Creativity

• Media often involves a lot of creativity. Whether it's a TV show, website, radio, movie or music, creativity was most likely involved. Thus, media demonstrates creativity to kids, and encourages them to be creative as well. They also are encouraged to use their imagination, especially when listening to the radio, as they learn to create visual images for what they're hearing, whether talk or music. They also learn to express themselves, which perhaps will lead to an interest in being a writer, performing on stage or some other thing that develop critical thinking skills and positive life interests.

Seeing New Things

• Media often introduces kids to new things. While some of these things are negative, much of it is positive, such as new inventions, countries around the world, cultural customs and more. For many kids, they might never get first-hand experience in these areas. For example, perhaps their family can't afford to travel overseas. Thus, media can step in and show them the beautiful cathedrals of Europe or the Great Wall of China or other things they wouldn't normally get to see.