TV turn-off week is September 20 through 26. "A recent study found that the more time kids spend watching TV and movies or playing video games, the more likely they are to be obese, smoke cigarettes and not graduate from high school." (The National Institute of Health and Common Sense Media)
With that in mind, how can families capitalize on this next week?
With that in mind, how can families capitalize on this next week?
- Don't overreact to this newfound information and ban the TV for the entire week. You don't have to experience a total blackout to gain the benefit.
- Look ahead before the week begins and determine if there are any shows or family movies that could be enjoyed together. Put those on your calendar.
- In order to convince your kids (and maybe another adult) that this is going to be a great experience, make it FUN!
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- Instead of TV, play a board game together.
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- Most kids enjoy cooking as a family. Let your children choose the treat you can bake together or maybe plan the entire meal.
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- Play outside at home or at a park or playground near your home.
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- Go on an adventure. An adventure doesn't have to be exotic or expensive. It can be as simple as a picnic, a bike hike, or a penny walk...that's where you flip a coin at every intersection and go right (heads) or left (tails). You might discover things you've never seen...right in your own neighborhood.
- The key point is to connect with eachother. (And while you're doing that, you will get know some of the nicest people -- your family!)
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