With the explosion of baby DVDs and the launch of BabyFirstTV, a TV channel aimed specifically at babies, the controversial issue is once again taking center stage. Should parents allow babies to watch television? Is TV good for babies, or might it actually cause irreversible harm to them? In an honest look at the arguments for and against there are many – doctors, teachers, parents and others – who strongly oppose the idea of babies watching TV, but for those who are involved in creating and marketing of baby DVDs, the best argument seems to be that since parents are allowing babies to watch TV anyway, they might as well have something age-appropriate and educational to watch.
What Does The American Association of Pediatrics Say About Babies and TV?
The AAP has the following very clear position on kids/babies and television:
“It may be tempting to put your infant or toddler in front of the television, especially to watch shows created just for children under age two. But the American Academy of Pediatrics says: Don't do it! These early years are crucial in a child's development. The Academy is concerned about the impact of television programming intended for children younger than age two and how it could affect your child's development. Pediatricians strongly oppose targeted programming, especially when it's used to market toys, games, dolls, unhealthy food and other products to toddlers. Any positive effect of television on infants and toddlers is still open to question, but the benefits of parent-child interactions are proven. Under age two, talking, singing, reading, listening to music or playing are far more important to a child's development than any TV show.“
How can TV negatively affect your child's development? First, TV takes away from the precious time babies have to interact with people and explore their environment. Second, possible links have been found between early television exposure and subsequent attentional problems in children. The subject needs further research, but the current information is enough to elicit the strong response from the AAP.
Why Would Parents Let a Baby Watch TV?
If you are truly asking this question, you must not have kids! Realistically speaking, there are many parents who would not ever let a baby watch TV, but other parents who need a break every now and then find that a baby DVD gives them just enough time to take a shower or even take a minute to breathe and regroup. Parents with colicky or otherwise high needs or special needs babies really might not have another effective means of getting a break on some days.
Thankfully, resources are available to help parents and caregivers find alternatives to using television as a babysitter. Also, if you do decide that you want or need to try a DVD for babies, research has prompted DVDs that pay special attention to the pacing and other needs of babies, so there are some better options out there. The main thing is, keeping in mind what the AAP has said over and over about no TV under two, just make sure that any TV time is very limited and as interactive as possible.
Great Choices for Baby DVDs
In my research on DVDs made for babies, I have found a few that seem the most age appropriate and provide the best possible value for babies when used appropriately and sparingly. Here are a few baby DVDs I love and the reasons why:
- Baby Einstein Discovery Kits: The Baby Einstein company has listened to the advice of pediatricians and child development specialists, and they have come up with a way to make viewing a more interactive experience for babies. Encouraging parents to watch and play along, Baby Einstein Discovery Kits include the DVD and additional resources like a CD and Discovery Cards or books.
- Eebee’s adventures: Each Eebees DVD is divided into three, 10-minute segments, which focus on a learning concept modeled by Eebee and other babies. The DVDs emphasize learning through play and exploration, and they also contain a wealth of information and ideas for parents. I love these DVDs because the grown ups on the show model such wonderful, caring, fun and enriching playtime with the babies, that it is really inspiring for parents to watch and helps us remember how important it is to let go of the sleep deprived exhaustion, hectic schedules and stress and just enjoy being with baby.
- Sesame Beginnings: By Sesame Workshop, Sesame Beginnings also provides great information for parents, and the DVD content is slowly paced interaction between baby Sesame Street characters and their caregivers. The best thing about Sesame Beginnings DVDs, though, is the music. Babies love it!