Preschools that need to use TV to keep children occupied or to enable teachers to give additional attention to students who need it should ensure that television time is limited. Teachers should discuss the contents of television programs with children, and should avoid programs that contain violence and antisocial behavior, as well as shows that have lots of commercials or product placements. Television should not be used as an educational activity. Instead, try hands-on strategies such as reading, craft projects and singing songs.
Children who watch television in their early years are more likely to have learning difficulties and trouble in school. A 2004 study published in the journal "Pediatrics," for example, emphasizes the role attention span can play in children's ability to learn and points out that children who watch certain fast-paced television programs during preschool are more likely to have trouble paying attention. A 2011 article in "Current Psychiatry Reports" emphasizes that exposure to television increases children's negative attitudes toward school and increases the likelihood of academic failure.
Television exposure is correlated with an increase risk of obesity in children, according to a 2006 study published in the "Archives of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine." Even children who don't gain weight, however, may experience health problems. A 2011 study published in "Pediatrics" noted that children who watch television have a harder time falling asleep. Sleep difficulties are correlated with a host of problems, including behavioral issues and academic struggles.
Sometimes television contains violence that may be presented as funny, particularly in children's shows. An increase in television viewing is correlated with an increase in violence, according to Stamm. Children who regularly watch TV also tend to have shorter attention spans. Television tends to promote problematic behaviors. For example, gender stereotypes are common in commercials, according to Stamm, and television tends to emphasize the value of consumption. Children who regularly watch TV may end up constantly pleading with their parents to buy them the latest, greatest gadgets. Perhaps most importantly, time spent watching television is time not spent in more educational and socially productive activities such as playing games, running outside or reading.
Although educational television can't replace playtime and learning, it's a better alternative than cartoons and adult programming. Children who have limited access to academic opportunities and who live in low-income areas are particularly likely to benefit from educational programs such as "Sesame Street." These programs fill in knowledge gaps and can help to compensate for information children aren't learning at home or in school. When a preschool doesn't have the time or resources to teach early literacy skills or spend individual time with students, educational television -- in small doses -- can help fill in the gaps.