While we always look at television in a negative way as something to do with the attitude of most kids these days, let's not forget that there are still good effects of watching television so long as done in moderation and with the right programs being watch. Some parents have long been aware of the unique influence of TV on their children. They have observed that, even with toys around them and their mothers in the room, infants will still turn or roll towards television. Infants are fascinated with the colors, movement and sounds coming from the screen. The good effects of television are explained briefly below.
Good Effects in Health
TV has had, and continues to have good effects on children's health. Of special note are campaigns designed by governments and public which interests groups to change behavior and attitudes towards a variety of health related issues. Also of interest is the growing use of television in institutions for children with behavioral problems where specially designed programming can encourage acceptable behavior, or in hospitals where TV can be used to treat various ailments. It can relieve the anxieties of youngsters about to undergo surgery, or simply to offer companionship and entertainment.
Positive Social Behavior
Of particular significance to parents are findings that suggest TV can positively influence behavior and give children values that help them deal with the world. Evidence show that children watch programs with positive social themes are more likely to exhibit behavior such as thoughtfulness, helpfulness, cooperation and sharing. Furthermore, research indicates that programs designed to produce positive social attitudes have twice the impact on behavior that violent ones do, not only increasing viewer's feelings for others but also lowering their antisocial tendencies.
Reading Skills
A positive correlation has been discovered between TV and the development of reading skills. A well designed and regularly viewed materials can motivate and teach elementary reading skills. They also suggest that TV enable children to become interested in a wider range of books and can stimulate interest in reading through dramatizations of stories.
Language Development
Findings linked with Nickelodeon further suggest that young viewers are better able to name geometric figures, recognize letters and words, and discuss themselves and their surroundings than peers who have had no experience with these programs. Although child development theory has identified particular average in ages at which children develop these skills, there are plenty of evidence that practice in skills such as matching identical pictures and memorizing letters and sounds can improve them.
Television is not all negative. It can offer many positive effects in children, so long as the guidance of the parents is always present.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Judee_May