The Television Media

Problem statement: Some people say TV is bad for children because it discourages them from having exercise and from communicating with other children. However, others say it stimulates the mind and gives children knowledge of the world. Overall, is TV good or bad for children?? Give reasons.
When i received this topic, it got me thinking while walking back to my dorm. It IS true that the television media stimulates their mind and gives them a better picture of the world outside the four walls of their home. But does it discourage them from having exercise and from communicating with other children?? Not really. Television is moderation can actually be a good thing. Provided the parents monitor what their children are watching.
Studies conducted by paediatricians and child psychologists have shown that children who are exposed to good and beneficial contents of this media are more sociable with those of their age. It eliminates the fear of socializing in them. A simple program like Sesame Street or The Barney Show teaches them to make new friends, practice good manners (saying 'please' and 'thank you') and improves their vocabulary. The Disney Channel for example has the Art Attack program each day; it can develop the creative side of the child and even possibly enhance the child's creativity. Basically, preschoolers can get help learning the alphabets, grade schoolers can learn about wildlife on nature shows; there's no doubt t.v can be a good educator and entertainer.
Too much t.v however CAN be detrimental to children. Studies have shown that children who spend more than 4 hours a day are likely to be overweight. Kids who view violent acts are highly likely to pick up these acts (not to mention memorize the swear words to use them when they're fighting with others). Sometimes, TV characters also reinforce gender-role and racial stereotypes (which are poisonous to the young minds).
However, with adult supervision and monitoring, I'm sure that the young minds won't be stained with such negative pictures and values. THEREFORE, TV IS good for children provided they are exercised to practice healthy viewing habits.