crisis pregnancy
Big Effects From a Small Screen
From birth many children are taught, by their parents' examples and through time spent in front of the tube, that television has a lot to offer.
But how much influence should television have on your baby? The American Pediatric Association recommends that children under 2 not watch television at all.
According to experts, children who watch too much TV tend to be less interested in physical activity, often develop verbal skills more slowly and tend to be less confident in social situations. Even shows that are targeted toward young children may encourage violence, disrespect toward others and disobedience.
When you choose to turn on the television, maximize the positives and minimize the negatives by watching with your child. If you know what your baby is viewing, you can use the experience to introduce new words, encourage a love of music and teach new concepts. Be certain the television shows and videos you watch together are age appropriate and don't contain objectionable material. Limit viewing time to half an hour or less for young children, and talk with your child during the program to enhance the learning experience.
Encourage your child to move around while watching television: dance when a song comes on, recite the alphabet with the characters and clap for the fun parts. The more your child participates in learning, the more likely he is to retain new information.
For the most part, TV isn't the best way to entertain or educate your child. Try one of these ways to actively engage your child's mind and body.
- Read together. By promoting imagination, verbal skills and an appreciation for books, children greatly benefit from hearing you read.
- Play together. Focus on games that teach: singing nursery rhymes, playing peek-a-boo and practicing new physical and verbal skills.
- Take a walk together. Being in the yard or strolling around the neighborhood can teach children about nature and weather. It's also a great opportunity to observe what interests your child.
- Enjoy a hobby together. From a very young age, children get excited about doing things with their parents. Begin collecting stickers, rocks or flowers to encourage learning, creativity and togetherness.
Background Information
Behind the Scenes of a Teen Pregnancy
A look at the thoughts and feelings she — and you — are going through.
Abortion Risks
While abortion seems like a "quick fix" for a long-term problem, it is a permanent decision that carries physical, emotional and spiritual risks.
Deciding About Adoption
When considering adoption as an alterative to raising your baby, these answers may dispel adoption myths.
Questions and Answers
Why do I feel like this pregnancy has pulled me in so many different directions? I feel so overwhelmed with all the ramifications of this decision I must make. How can I sort it all out?
Answer
My pregnant daughter has her whole life still ahead of her. Would it be better for her to place her baby with a family through adoption, parent her baby or have an abortion?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
Things Seen and Unseen
A woman in a white coat walked into the room and flipped on the fluorescent lights, jarring my wife awake. The jarring was just beginning.
Left to Suffer
Abortion can leave a woman feeling more empty and alone than she ever dreamed possible.
Life is Sacred
Sometimes the choices we make bring pain. Thankfully, one woman turned to God for healing.
Taboo Grief: Men and Abortion
It's not something most men talk about, but the ones who've lost a child to abortion bear many scars.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Faith Helps
God may be the only person who understands what you're going through.
What the Choice is All About
For a long time it baffled me. I could never understand why anyone would want to be pro-choice. But this past week I finally got it.
Related Topics
Relationships: Blended Families, Parents and Adult Children
Transitions: Preparing for Adolescence, Empty Nest
