crisis pregnancy

Suggestions for Taming the Tube

Decide what, when and how long your child will watch TV. Specifically:

  • Set definite limits on time and content.
  • Monitor what's going on, and be prepared to remove your toddler from the viewing area (or shut the program off) if things are getting too intense.
  • Talk to your child about what she just watched. Even a program with elements or a message you don't like can be a teaching springboard if you put your spin on its content. ("That boy didn't speak very nicely to his mom, did he?")

Be discerning about children's videos. Watch them yourself before showing them to your child. While many worthwhile stories utilize fantasy or supernatural elements, some G-rated cartoons contain messages that may undermine or contradict the spiritual values you cherish and teach at home.

Be even more discerning about video games. Even though a toddler won't have much luck manipulating the controls, she may watch with rapt attention while the older kids battle monsters, space aliens or other humans—and she may view some grisly and disturbing images.

Don't get into the habit of using the TV as an electronic baby-sitter . After a long day it is extremely tempting to park the kids in front of the screen so you can pick up the clutter, get a meal started, or simply put your feet up for a few minutes. If you need a time-out, put on a specific video you know to be worthwhile or at least search for wholesome children's programming. But don't leave the TV on for hours on end or allow older children to channel surf, because you will lose control of those powerful images and sounds entering the minds of the most important people in your life.

Ask yourself periodically whether television viewing is replacing conversation in your family. Consider declaring your home a "TV-free zone" one or more evenings every week in order to encourage reading, games or other activities. Don't allow the TV to become a routine guest (or intruder) at any family meal.

If you are having trouble controlling the broadcast material coming into your home, consider disconnecting the cable or antenna and relying strictly on videocassettes that you buy and/or rent , choosing material based on quality, age appropriateness and family-friendly values.

If TV watching is getting out of control and the tube is exerting far more influence in your family's life than you feel is appropriate, consider as a last resort giving the television a new home for a while — unplugged in the garage.

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.

RelationshipsBlended Families, Parents and Adult Children

TransitionsPreparing for Adolescence, Empty Nest