Tune out for Good Health

Limiting Computer and Television Time

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Limiting the amount of time children spend with the television or computer to one hour per day can help prevent a sedentary lifestyle and alter the blueprint for future health problems.

"Most kids average five to six hours a day in front of some sort of monitor," says Dr. William Klish, chief of gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition at Texas Children's Hospital and professor of pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. "Above all other factors, this is the activity that seems to most strongly influence a child's weight. Obesity is rising because kids are spending more time in the house and less time in outdoor play."

Dr. Klish believes that, although the national focus has concentrated on overweight school-age children, the roots of obesity actually take place as early as 3 years of age. "For health's sake, parents should establish healthy habits in the preschool years when the child is still within their control," he says. "Encourage your child to choose pursuits that generate increased physical activity. Buy active toys rather than computer games or videos and define indoor areas for physical play with softballs or scooter toys."

For older children, Dr. Klish recommends simple adjustments to everyday routines. "Encourage kids to walk or ride bikes to school," he says. "They can play outdoors or in the gym for 30 minutes before homework every day. It's better to walk with friends than talk on the phone."

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Tune out for Good Health

Limiting Computer and Television Time

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