FAMILY MATTERS:
Help children make proper viewing choices
___We asked our sons about the boy who got set on fire after imitating a stunt he saw on a TV program. To our amazement, they had seen the show at a friend's house. The boys could not understand our opposition to watching shows like that. How can we help them make wise choices in what they view?
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KAY TOWERS
Program Coordinator
LifeWay Fellowship, Killeen
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___You are to be commended for taking a stand as to what is allowed. However, healthy discussion about acceptable viewing choices is important.
___Many programs children watch today include violence. Studies show a correlation between violence on the screen and aggressive behavior. Many boys do try to imitate what they see in a movie or program. The boy you mentioned is a good illustration about bad choices. Explain that things seen on TV often are dangerous and are inappropriate for people to copy.
___Much of what is produced today includes sexual scenes and profanity. Help them understand why you believe this is inappropriate for them to watch. Words often heard in a program can become part of their speech. Don't forget the impact of messages sent by commercials.
___Suggest for one week the family watch specific programs together and discuss what they see. The viewing should include what you as parents wish to see as well as the boys' choices. Watch a variety of programs and videos. Keep in mind you will like different things. Difference is not, in itself, a bad thing. As you go through the week, make a list of the shows that will be acceptable for viewing by your sons. Some considerations might be:
___ Does the program make me feel angry, sad or frightened?
___ Does it make me laugh and feel better?
___ Is this something that supports what I learn in God's word?
___ Will it help me live daily in a way that would please Christ?
___The Apostle Paul wrote some wise advice to the Corinthian believers about making good choices. Read the following texts and share them with your sons--1 Corinthians 6:12; 8:9, 10:23 and 10:31.
___Psalm 119:37 says: "Keep me from looking at worthless things. Let me live by your word." Help your boys realize all they do and participate in now as children contributes to who they will become as young men. Let them know you want to help them grow into the adults God desires them to be.
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