(No wonder they know all the words to pop songs, but can’t recite a line from Shakespeare!)

For every hour teens spend reading, they spend 10 watching TV. Many parents and teachers are concerned about the messages kids are getting from all this TV time.

Here’s how you can help your kids take more responsibility for the TV they watch: Try encouraging them to keep a TV log.

Place a notebook beside the television. Have your kids keep track of each program they watch. Ask them to write down reactions to what they’re seeing.

Just the log alone will help your kids be more aware of the time they spend watching TV. Read and discuss the log together. You may help them realize they can afford to spend less time watching television. Books and magazines are great alternatives—and they improve school performance.

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