TV And Frenetic Behavior

[calgal007]

My 9 yo spent 10 days this summer watching commercial television. I have noticed a change in his ability to focus on reality, his attention to what is going on around him, and frenetic demands for toys. Of course, I've pulled tv from his daily activities, but are there any ways to "unprogram" him?

[Marg of Arabia]

I have been having similar trouble with my 10 year old boy. I have been forcing him to sit down and read. That didn't go over so well. Then I found a book about how to draw super heroes. He is really into it. He spends hours drawing them and then coloring them in. We frame them when he is done. It is a great alternative on those rainy days when he can't do something outside. I know he will get tired of it soon but I am hoping it will last a while. He just needed a creative outlet.

It is tough..

Good luck, marg

[Nursing Mother]

Wow Marg I have the same problem with my 10 year old boy. He loves TV, but I "force" him to read or draw. At first he hates it, but then I find him spending a lot of time drawing (he hates to read). and making stuff with the glue gun. Boys that age have sooooo much energy, and I don't think reading is a great alternative because he hates to sit still, but when he is working with his hands its amazing what he can do.

Calgal, you can deprogram your kid by getting him involved in activies. Just making him read is difficult enough. I have a craft table always open with crayons, markers, sticks, glue gun, glitter, twisties, paper of all kinds, glue, clay, playdough, etc. The table is never cleaned and is always there. The kids can go to it anytime they want. Every now and then I "restock" the craft table and everyone is excited. (well the younger ones are). Try that. Kids love crafts.