While on one hand researchers provide evidence that TV viewing can have long-term effects on a child's development, most parents would agree that TV can be a lifeline at times. So, is there any truth in the scare stories that regularly turn up in the news and, if so, what should parents do about it?
Let's begin with the research. It would be silly to dismiss the findings as, little by little, a picture is beginning to emerge. Yes, it would seem that TV can affect children's development, both in the short and long term.
Early viewing in particular - that is, before the age of two - is probably not advisable, as it looks as if it can have a serious impact on a child's language development. This is probably because this age group need what I would describe as the 'personal touch' in order to learn language. This is all about being hugged, gazing into someone's face and enjoying another person's company.
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