I've actually always liked the idea of having no TV. Even in college my roommates and I didn't have cable--the cable company couldn't understand why we wouldn't want to bundle our internet with cable because IT WAS ACTUALLY CHEAPER to have cable and internet than just to have internet (this alone should tell us just how important it is to them for us to be watching TV).
The simple reason I got rid of the TV was because it's damaging to our two children. I think most everyone assumes that TV is bad for children but maybe doesn't realize just how terrible it is? I know I didn't. I knew that watching too much TV was bad but I figured a little in the evenings while I was making dinner wasn't really TOO bad but it is. It really is that terrible.
Anyway, it's bad and I got rid of the TV. And I love what has been happening in my house since the TV is gone.
- Firstly, I need to say that my 2 year old has asked to watch the TV one time since I removed it about a month ago. One time. She was watching Play School and Peppa Pig nearly every day and in one month she has asked about it only once!
- I feel like her imagination has exploded since the TV has gone missing. The way she plays pretend and the stories she invents are amazing. I am in awe of the way she has been playing lately. It's a joy to watch.
- I love the way our living room --formerly TV room-- is laid out. It's a perfect spot to sit and have coffee in the morning or a drink in the evening and actually converse instead of stare at the TV.
- I have been reading more, sewing more and have even started taking an online class!
- My 2 year old has been more calm and happy lately too. We've been spending a lot more time outside because she wants to explore the rocks and plants and other life outside.
Simply said, getting rid of the TV has been amazing and I really will fight to keep it that way. People think we're a bit nuts because EVERYONE has a TV. But we generally don't do the easy thing, we also don't own a microwave, and life is still bearable.
Anyway, here are some other resources about TV viewing and children:
Simplicity Parenting--A wonderful, wonderful book. I probably should write an entire post about how much I love this book.
NurtureShock: New Thinking About Children--Also a great book. Amazing research on the way children behave.
AhaParenting.com-- Great article with other resources about TV for children.
I can't forget to include some recent photos for family overseas either :)
The girls at the zoo. They both loved this albino python
C on "western day" for daycare
More of C's "shape people"
E loves to play the piano
baby E about a month ago
C in our lovely new wrap!
