Research that Benefits Children and Families
“In a recent study, Dr. Frederick Zimmerman and Dr. Dimitri
Christakis, both of the University of Washington's Child Health Institute, say
new research indicates that toddlers under the age of 3 should not be allowed
to watch television at all. They also say that even for older children, the
negative effects of too much television outweigh the benefits of shows like Sesame
Street” (Mahan, 2005, Para 1).
A recent research study was conducted by individuals who are affiliated with the Australian Catholic University, and along with their “co- researchers,” the early childhood teachers “ECT’s,” find out “How
do young
children respond to the various elements and segments of Play School when viewed
within a small group in a suburban preschool context?” The “Play School” is a television program disseminated
by The “Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)” (Harrison, 2011, p. 1). A recent research study was conducted by individuals who are affiliated with the Australian Catholic University, and along with their “co- researchers,” the early childhood teachers “ECT’s,” find out “How
The subjects of the research were “preschool-
age” children (Harrison, 2012, p. 1). It
has been proposed that by the time children reach between three to five years of
age they are capable of knowing when adults are providing factual information
versus make believe (Harrison 2012, p. 2). According to Harrison (2012), “Richert, Robb
and Smith (2011) argue that, given the high proportion of time now spent by
young children watching television, this capacity is likely to extend to television
programs and characters” (Harrison, 2012, p. 2).
According to Harrison (2012)Richert et
al. (2011, p. 91) believe that children who can identify themselves with certain characters such as “Dora the Explorer and those on Sesame Street,” children who can associate themselves with
familiar surroundings and or cultural situations appear to be more readily prepared
for problem-solving situations (Harrison, 2012, p. 2).
The researchers, and the co- researchers
(ECT’s) over a period of time observed and document how the children reacted to
certain children orientated based programs (the programs were equal to programs
such as” Dora the Explorer, and Sesame Street”). “The results of the research indicate that
Play School encourages the active engagement of young children in play and
learning. The findings can be used to guide future program development”
(Harrison, 2012, p. 5), although I do not believe television should take the
place of the attention children need and are entitled from the caregiver, I do believe
that television has its place, and if used in moderation will provide more positive
outcomes than negative ones.
References:
Harrington. C.,(2012). Watching the children watching Play School:Indicators of engagement, play and learning; 37(4) 1-8 Australian Catholic University
Mahan, C. (2005).
Scientists
say no television for young children
T.V. Com
