I think at the most basic instinct, kids want to play. Sometimes when they turn to TV it's because they feel lonely or are having a hard time finding other options. DS clearly will ask for TV when DH and I are busy and can't play with him / talk to him. I love the idea of a choice chart. I don't think you have to put TV on there at all, really. Just having the choices available for the child to choose from may magically be enough to deter them from TV in the first place.
Nice point. I also think that kids tend to not be as creative and choose TV simply because its easy. If a child is looking around the living room thinking "Hmmmm, what should I do/play now?" it is just so easy to see the TV. I think if its presence is not there, kids will choose other things. We just got a HUGE flat screen so my hubby can play playstation and I personally prefer our life without it. It is mounted on the wall so I am planning on making some nice simple curtains that can close over it. Feng shui experts also seem to say that a TV (even if turned off) creates a cold presence in the living room and takes away some of the good energy. It's like the new (cold) hearth!
Follow Mothering