TV and Toddlers Don't Mix

A new study from Australia has come out recommending that children under 2 years of age not be permitted to watch TV or use other electronic media including DVDs and computers. The guidelines warn that normal development of this age group can be stunted, specifically in the areas of language development and social interactions.

The study recommended children 2 to 5 years of age should be limited to no more than one hour of TV per day. Research shows that an increasing number of children watch too much TV. The average four-month old in Australia watches 44 minutes per day according the www.timesonline.com

Developmental Needs of Toddlers

Children develop and grow not just physically but socially, cognitively, and emotionally as well. According to the book Ages and Stages, children's emotional development is centered around their relationship with the parent (and care givers). Love and affection are nurtured through the development of trust.

How does a parent help to develop that trust? The answer is: through "responsive care." The way one responds to a child's anger or frustration by being gentle, for example, sends a message that the child is loved. This allows the child to then form loving relationships later in life. When parents respond quickly to a child's needs (distress or love) with lots of physical contact such as kissing, touching, stroking, cuddling, hugging, etc., the child feels safe and secure thus strong attachments are established.

Children in this age group need opportunities to learn about the world. Giving them new places to explore, new people to meet and new activities to engage in will help them to develop imagination and curiosity as well as help them to feel they've accomplished something without your help.

Talking with your toddler is important in helping develop language skills. Talk to him about what you're doing "I'm washing the dishes. Look how soapy the water is. Now it's time to rinse off all those soap suds." Acknowledge his attempts to communicate with you. Talk back even if her babbling has no form so that you have a back and forth conversation. Use sign language with gestures like waving goodbye or blowing kisses. Avoid general terms such as toy for rattle, or food for cookie; instead, be specific and encourage his attempts are mimic you.

For more tips on raising toddlers visit theparentingcoach.ca.