
Making Screen Time Learning Time
9/26/2023 | 1m 4sVideo has Closed Captions
A family shares how they turn TV time into a productive learning opportunity.
While television can be an entertainment source, of course we know TV – public television in particular – is also a valuable educational resource. Watching content on TV can also be a conduit to discussions about context, purpose, and key takeaways. Obviously, it is important to consider the tone of the program and make sure it is age appropriate when using media this way.
Learning to Read is a local public television program presented by WNPT
Funding for LEARNING TO READ is provided by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation and the Hays Foundation.

Making Screen Time Learning Time
9/26/2023 | 1m 4sVideo has Closed Captions
While television can be an entertainment source, of course we know TV – public television in particular – is also a valuable educational resource. Watching content on TV can also be a conduit to discussions about context, purpose, and key takeaways. Obviously, it is important to consider the tone of the program and make sure it is age appropriate when using media this way.
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Providing Support for PBS.org
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Providing Support for PBS.org
Learn Moreabout PBS online sponsorship- Hey Rowan, do you wanna watch TV for a little bit?
- Yes.
- Okay, what show do you wanna watch?
- The Kids Case.
- Sounds good.
Our daughter, Rowan, is three years old and just like any three year old, she loves to watch TV with us.
We try to limit TV time and make an effort to watch together and talk about the show.
I can help Rowan understand what she's watching and apply it to real life.
Not only do we talk about what actually happens on screen, but I ask follow-up questions that connected to other situations.
- Is a orange snake?
- Is it a orange snake?
Oh.
We look for opportunities to expand on what we watch like reading a related book.
Another tip is to use Rowan's favorite character to teach important lessons.ú And this part is what color?
- Green.
- I also try to be aware of how media affects Rowan.
We look for shows with friendly and welcoming characters and turn off shows that are not age appropriate.
- [Voiceover] Made possible by the generous support of the Marlene and Spencer Hays Foundation.
Learning to Read is a local public television program presented by WNPT
Funding for LEARNING TO READ is provided by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation and the Hays Foundation.