Second-hand Television?

North Carolina researchers have found the average American child, 8 months to 8 years old, is exposed to almost 4 hours of "background" television per day. Factors contributing to this were leaving the TV on when no one is watching and ownership of TVs in the child's bedroom.

Playtime is Important Time for Children

Play is an important part of growing up healthy. It contributes to the social, emotional, cognitive and physical well-being of children. The American Academy of Pediatrics has expressed concern that when academic achievement is emphasized over recess and regular physical activity, children living in poverty may have the most to lose.PositiveTip: Participate in playful, physical…

‘Screen-free’ Reaffirmed by the AAP

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) published a policy statement in 1999 that addressed only TV exposure by children younger than 2 years old. It has now updated this statement based on new evidence to include video programs and games. Key findings include the fact that evidence does not support the educational value of even…

Infants and Toddlers Need Adequate Sleep for Healthy Development

The American Academy Sleep Medicine recommends that infants get a minimum of 14 hours of sleep per day and toddlers 12 to 14 hours for healthy development. Parents are urged to make this a priority in starting their child’s health habits on the right foot. Even if your toddler fusses in an attempt to stay…

One in Five Toddlers Has Their Own TV

The Centers for Disease Control and the Oregon Public Health Division has revealed that almost one in five two year olds has a television in their bedroom.These children watch more than two hours of programming every day. Excessive exposure of infants to television is associated with impaired cognitive, language, and emotional development as well as…