It may be unrealistic to completely eliminate TV viewing from young children's lives. In fact, good TV programs can spark children's curiosity and open up new worlds to them. Parents however, should take an active role in monitoring both the type and the amount of TV watched by their children.

Here are some tips that can help your children get more from TV:

• Limit TV viewing to 1 hour a day or less.
• Plan to watch specific programs instead of random viewing.
• Look for children's programs designed for your child's age.
• Choose programs that encourage children to explore their feelings and their world.
• The best programs are entertaining and informative.
• Make sure TV is not substituting other activities.
• Talk to children about sensitive TV themes and give them an opportunity to ask questions.
• Balance reading and TV activities.
• Tune into public television programs.
• During TV shows point out positive examples of ethnic, cultural and minority groups.
• Point out positive examples of people performing out side of stereotypical roles.
• Avoid programming that show excessive violence, including cartoons.
• Contact local newspapers, advertisers and TV stations to express concern over violent programming.
• Start early to develop your child's good viewing habits.