I never really gave my baby watching television much thought when I was pregnant. I grew up with a TV in my room and I had my husband move the TV into our bedroom when I was put on bed rest. I often had my daughter in the same room while the TV was on and I didn't think much of it. I mentioned that my daughter tried watching the TV to my pediatrician and she informed me that it was bad for her eyesight. She recommended that I not let her watch it. Soon after that this was a topic of discussion at my support group and I was stunned to learn that a recent study shows that children who watch TV have problems concentrating. Even having the TV on in the background can be harmful, even if your child is not paying attention, the sound can be distracting to a young mind. It's not recommended that any child under 2 watch TV. My husband and I discussed this and we decided not to let our baby watch TV until she is 2. I want her to enjoy the outdoors and other hobbies and not be addicted to the TV. Even when she is 2 I only plan on letting her watch a movie as a reward for good behavior. This was hard at first because it meant we couldn't watch TV either but now I realize all the wonderful hobbies I have been missing out on. It is a bit of a challenge enforcing this rule when we are visting family but we try our hardest. Not everyone is on board with our decision, I have heard lots of Why won't you let her watch TV?, but I know this is the best thing for her so I try to not let it bother me. I hope this decision lets her creative mind soar!
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