Should My Children Watch TV Commercials?

TV viewing among families runs the gamut. Some families avoid watching TV altogether. Some watch only certain programs. Some only watch certain channels (such as PBS). Some have few clear TV viewing limits. And for some, TV is like a member of the family - with them where ever they go.

Regardless of what your viewing standards are (that topic is for another article!), parents would be wise to use the commercials they encounter as an opportunity to discuss and illuminate their family's values.

Before we continue, I would like to add that there are circumstances in which commercials should be avoided. Sensitive, highly suggestible, or very young children should be spared being exposed to content that could negatively impact them or is inappropriate for their level of development. Simply turn the TV off or switch to a blank screen during the commercials and use that time to discuss the show you were just watching.

If you do decide to watch commercials with your children, don't let them slip by without a fight. Talk about what you see. Identify what supports and what undermines your family's values. Every family would be wise to take any opportunity to promote what I refer to as Guiding Principles - those fundamental values and beliefs that provide the solid foundational structure for your family (these can be things such as: "treat others with respect," "tell the truth," etc.). Commercials can provide parents with a ripe opportunity to illustrate those principles to their children. Here is an example of how this concept would play out in real life:

One evening while watching TV with your children, you see a commercial where one of the characters gets caught doing something wrong. Instead of admitting it, he lies to cover it up. The situation then snowballs into a comical outcome. After it is over you can ask your children some of the following probing questions such as, "What did you think of that commercial?" "How do you think he handled it?" "What could he have done differently?" "What would you do in that situation?" "What happened as a result of his lie?" "What would have happened if he told the truth at the beginning?" You can then conclude the discussion with a clarifying comment such as, "I know that commercial wasn't real life, but it reminds me of the fact that it is always better to tell the truth."

See how easy that was? Outside of a disciplinary act for misbehavior and without lecturing, you have solidified one of your family's Guiding Principles. These moments are so important but so easily missed during the normal course of your family's day. Seek opportunities to work these observations into your conversations. Watching TV does not have to be a lost part of your day. Reclaim the time for the good of your family.