TV Free Life

[Cisne]

Hi all! This summer has caused me to think about how "plugged in" our family has become. Has anyone gotten rid of TV, computer, games, etc with success? How has this best worked for you? I'm thinking that DS (5)'s issues may stem from too much screen time.
Thanks,
Michele

[RedWine]

We've never done TV, so it's never been an issue.

We are very, very busy with lots of other stuff -- getting outside, walks, trips to museums, reading, reading, more reading, playdoh, gluesticks, crayons, dice, games, playing dress-up, danicing around to music, baking stuff, etc. etc. etc. And when I need time to myself, the girls play on their own or with each other.

At first you may hear complaints, but after a few weeks you'll probably never look back.

[boatbaby]

we also never had TV with DS -- got rid of it a few months after he was born. I agree, just kiss it goodbye and I promise you'll wonder how you ever had the time to sit and watch. And your son WILL find ways to stay amused and busy.

DS and I spend plenty of "down time" piddling around, laying in bed, playing under the covers, etc.

Then you can always watch carefully selected movies once a month or so in your computer, and make a family event of it... popcorn and pillows and such so that it's a "together" thing and a special event rather than having it be a background lifestyle time sucking thing.

Good luck!






p.s. Read Endangered Minds
http://www.amazon.com/Endangered-Min...5472946&sr=8-1

And The Plug In Drug
http://www.amazon.com/Plug-Drug-Tele...5472946&sr=8-1

[gloobella]

I don't watch TV (maybe on average an hour a month with DH) and I don't let DD. She just points to it and says Daddy's. DH watches only when the rest of the family is sleeping. I think only Law and Order.

It has really improved our relationship as now we talk to each other rather than just sit in each others presence. We don't feel like we are wasting our time either.

I just laugh when other people become obsessed about shows and talk about them non-stop.(I will admit I am a former American Idol junkie, but didn't regret not seeing it this year) I have my own life which is much more fulfilling (if not as interesting).