Playtime Better Than Tube Time for YoungstersIn a new policy statement, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says that unstructured play best nurtures brain development in infants and toddlers. The AAP discourages TV and even educational videos for this age group. ![]() Even though parents can find a number of "educational" TV and video programs aimed at infants and toddlers, the AAP says no evidence backs up the claim that such programs help children learn better. Moreover, the AAP says, youngsters who have extensive exposure to TV and video are at risk for language development delays when they start school. Far better than TV or other media, free play helps young children think creatively, solve problems, and develop reasoning and motor skills, the AAP says. Kids who are encouraged to play learn how to entertain themselves. Keep it unstructured"In today's 'achievement culture,' the best thing you can do for your young child is to give [the child] a chance to have unstructured play -- both with you and independently," says Ari Brown, M.D., a member of the AAP Council on Communications and Media. "Children need this in order to figure out how the world works." Here are specific recommendations from the report, which was published in the journal Pediatrics:
Always talk with your health care provider to find out more information. Online Resources(Our Organization is not responsible for the content of Internet sites.) American Academy of Pediatrics - Media Use by Children Younger Than 2 Years |
December 2011How to Limit TV TimeAlthough you might want to pull the plug at your home, it isn't always the practical solution to cutting back on your kids' TV watching. Here are some ideas to try:
Always talk with your health care provider to find out more information. |