Appropriate television use

Chances are your family/whānau enjoy watching television or playing computer games together. Many programmes and games are fun, positive and educational but others are unsuitable for children, particularly those with high levels of violence.

Try to use the television 'off' button more. Select programmes you really want to watch – don't just leave the television on all the time. You'll get far more enjoyment from what you do watch if you are in control of the television – not the other way around.

Helpful tips

• Don't let your children have a television or computer in the bedroom — read to them or encourage them to read
• Set up the television in a family room where you can track use
• Sit down together with a programme guide and help your children plan their television and computer time
• Eat at the table, not in front of the television
• Be a good role model — don't have a television in your bedroom and limit your own viewing
• Play more board games together, ride bikes together — whatever appeals most
• Make sure DVDs are age appropriate.