How to Raise No-TV Kids

Just because the vast majority of homes these days have a television doesn̵7;t mean you have to let your child grow up glued to the screen, wasting away hours each day. Not only will unplugging the television lower your electricity bill, it will also give your child more time to explore other activities. Although the adjustment period may be bumpy, your kid will eventually realize that life does go on even after you ditch the remote.

Things You'll Need

  • Games
  • Toys
  • Art supplies
  • Books

Instructions

    • 1

      Rid your home of any televisions or at least keep them out of sight. If your child has a television in her bedroom, get those out of there. You can̵7;t expect your child to say ̶0;No̶1; to TV if you̵7;re constantly watching one or if it̵7;s staring her in the face all the time.

    • 2

      Encourage your child to lead an active lifestyle. You can exercise with your child to set a good example and promote a healthy, no-TV lifestyle. Try biking, jogging, swimming, doing yoga, playing catch or attending family martial arts classes with your child. Enrolling him in a team sport or activity also keeps him moving and away from the television.

    • 3

      Stock up on games, toys and art supplies to fill the hours with unplugged entertainment. Have shelves or bins full of board games, puzzles, cards, dress-up clothes, building blocks, action figures, toy cars and play dough. Fill a bin with non-toxic craft paints, washable markers, crayons, paper, kids' scissors, glue sticks, string, yarn, fabric scraps and craft sticks. Pull this bin out throughout the week and allow your kiddo to make a new artistic masterpiece.

    • 4

      Introduce your child to the wonderful world of books. Take him to the used bookstore, library or thrift store to start his book collection. Designate a specific block of time as family reading time. Cuddle up on the couch and read your own books or read aloud to each other. This can help you stay connected, spend quality time together, foster a love for book adventures and promote literacy.

    • 5

      Give your child time to adjust. He may be upset by this new house rule, especially if he was a hard-core television watcher. He may complain that other kids have TV privileges and he feels left out. Validate his feelings and talk him through the issue calmly. Honestly explain your reasoning and intentions.

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