ParentDishhttp://www.parentdish.comParentDishhttp://www.parentdish.com/media/feedlogo.gifParentDishhttp://www.parentdish.comen-usCopyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only.Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Setting Screen Limits: Top 3 Tipshttp://www.parentdish.com/2011/07/08/setting-screen-limits/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/07/08/setting-screen-limits/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/07/08/setting-screen-limits/#commentsFiled under: , ,

setting tv limits

Credit: Corbis

Not all screens are created equal

* Kids spend nearly 7.5 hours per day with media.
* Balancing media usage is an essential part of growing up.
* When it comes to screen time, both quality and quantity matter.

Setting Screen Limits

Our kids are growing up in front of screens. From smartphones to gaming devices to the ever-present computer, our kids seem mesmerized by them. According to a recent Kaiser Foundation study, kids as young as 8 are spending nearly 7.5 hours per day consuming media. That's not surprising. Video games, Facebook, the Internet, and even TV -- they all seem so much more interesting than, say, doing homework. But studies have shown that all of this screen time can impact everything from kids' health to their school readiness.

The solution isn't as simple as turning everything off. There's a huge difference between an hour spent playing World of Warcraft and the same amount of time spent learning vocabulary from a smartphone app or composing music online.

So when it comes to screen time, it's important to pay attention to both quality and quantity.

In today's 24/7 digital world, learning to balance media usage has become an essential part of growing up. Just as kids learn not to eat too much candy, they must learn how to manage their media diets. While it helps to start when your kids are young, it's never too late to teach them how to recognize when enough is enough.

As parents, we need to guide our children toward activities that help them learn, stimulate their interests, and express their creativity. The task then becomes separating the mindful from the mindless. Following these simple steps will greatly help you and your kids manage -- and even optimize -- screen time.

Tips for all kids

Set an example. Do you hand your kid a smartphone in restaurants, keep the TV on during dinner, or check your email constantly? It'll be harder to teach your kids how to balance media usage if they don't see you doing the same.

Set limits. Parents can help kids develop self-control by working with them to create a schedule that incorporates all of the things they need to do in a day. Make sure that homework, hobbies, and good learning games come first. And you may want to schedule in some downtime. Childhood development experts say it's good for kids to be idle - and maybe even bored. Those moments allow for introspection and the development of self-awareness.

Get involved. Remember, not all screens are created equal - so make sure you know what your kids are doing. Take the time to sit down and play their favorite game with them or look at their latest digital creation. Once you have a sense of their interests, you can help them make better decisions about what they watch, play, and do. Plus, the more involved you are with your kids' digital lives, the better conversations you can have with them about their media choices.

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]]>how to limit tv watchingkids watching tvsetting screen limitsthe editors at Common Sense MediaFri, 08 Jul 2011 09:00:00 EST'Toddlers and Tiaras' Mom Aggressively Whitens Kids' Teethhttp://www.parentdish.com/2011/07/01/toddlers-and-tiaras-whitens-kids-teeth/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/07/01/toddlers-and-tiaras-whitens-kids-teeth/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/07/01/toddlers-and-tiaras-whitens-kids-teeth/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Mothers who enter their preschool tots in beauty pageants are usually gentle, laid-back souls who just want their little ones to meet other kids and have some fun.

Meanwhile, back in this universe, TV viewers are supposedly horrified by a pageant mom shown bleaching her daughter's teeth.

The London Daily Mail reports that viewers of "Toddlers and Tiaras" were taken aback by June 29's episode and the ferocity with which Lori, a mother of two from Chillicothe, Ohio, bleached her kids' teeth.

Lori's 8-year-old daughter Alaska protests while wearing an expression straight out of a cell block at Guantanamo Bay -- yet Lori is relentless.

"I bleach my children's teeth at least once a week, whether we have a pageant coming up or not," she explains on the show. "There's no harm in bleaching their teeth, as long as you use something that the children can stand the taste of, you're all right."

She might ask her 5-year-old Brandon for a second opinion. Given his whimpering, bleach buries the needle on Yuck-O-Meter.

The Daily Mail reports reaction to the bleaching scenes has been swift and indignant.

"This show just makes me so sad, and now we have another torture method to add to the heap these sorry moms make their children undergo like fake tans and body waxing," Jule Ryan Evans writes on CafeMom.

"I just can't imagine how parents think these things are OK to do to children," she adds. "Besides the physical pain and potential harm, the message they're sending their children -- that this is what's important -- is heartbreaking."

Others shocked by the bleaching include Lori's husband, Jay. On the show, he appeared surprised when he realized what she was doing. "I didn't know Lori bleached the kids' teeth," he said on the show. "I had no idea."

Lori tells the show she would rather bleach the kids' teeth than use "flippers" -- false teeth many child pageant contestants wear. "Flippers I think are kind of silly, because you're literally altering what God gave them," she says.

On the show, she keeps the bleach right next to the book, "The 7 Worst Things Parents Can Do." Any votes for No. 8?

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]]>mom bleaches kids teethpageantstlctoddlers and tiarasToddlers and Tiaras TLC Pageants Bleach Whitening Lori OhioTom HendersonFri, 01 Jul 2011 15:00:00 ESTMartha Stewart & AOL Launch 'Martha & Friends'http://www.parentdish.com/2011/07/01/martha-and-friends/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/07/01/martha-and-friends/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/07/01/martha-and-friends/#commentsFiled under: , ,

martha and friends

Martha and her friends are cooking up crafts, games and activities at marthaandfriends.com. Credit: Martha & Friends

Why should grown-ups have all the Martha Stewart fun?

It's time for kids to get in on the queen of craft action with "Martha & Friends," a new animated multimedia series for children that is sure to get the creativity flowing.

The Stewart collaboration features an animated 10-year-old Martha, described as creative and resourceful, along with her BFFs Kevin, Lily and Hannah and her two dogs, Francesca and Sharkey.

On marthaandfriends.com, kids can watch webisodes, which begin airing today, play games like Supermarket Dash or Kevin's Treehouse and learn how to do activities and projects such as making lemonade, personalizing pet bowls, decorating flip flops or whipping up homemade lip balm.

Wanna catch the gang on TV? On July 3, the Hallmark Channel will air "Martha's Fourth," a July 4th special following Martha and her pals as they take a trip to the beach.

Who couldn't use a mini Martha around the house?

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]]>kids activitieskids craftskids websitemartha and friendsmartha stewartLesley KennedyFri, 01 Jul 2011 14:00:00 ESTWorst TV Role Models: Is Snooki Teaching Your Kids?http://www.parentdish.com/2011/05/27/worst-tv-role-models/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/05/27/worst-tv-role-models/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/05/27/worst-tv-role-models/#commentsFiled under: ,

10 Worst TV Role Models

Tony, from "Skins," sleeps with every hot girl in sight. Credit: AP

What Are Kids Learning from TV Characters?

When it comes to sex, violence, drinking, bullying and other sensitive topics, you want messages about right and wrong to come from you -- not, say, Snooki from "Jersey Shore."

But, surprisingly, Snooki might be more of an ally than you think. Talking about TV characters and their choices can be a great way to start conversations with your kids about their own behavior. We encourage you to get familiar with the characters kids are watching -- whether you love or hate them -- and sneak in a little parental direction between Snooki's visits to the bar.

1. Snooki, "Jersey Shore"
Why she's bad: Not only is she not the brightest bulb in the bunch, but she drinks constantly and to excess. And while her drinking sometimes gets her arrested or leads to iffy sexual behavior, she gets lots of attention (and a big paycheck) for her antics.
Why it matters: Kids who watch shows with alcohol use are more likely to try drinking than those who don't.
What you can do: Use these moments to talk to your teens about drinking and whether they think the depictions on television are realistic. Take time to share your opinions -- and expectations -- about drinking. Be a good role model by not abusing alcohol in front of your kids.

2. Tony (James Newman), "Skins"
Why he's bad: He sleeps with every hot girl in sight, all the while stringing along his girlfriend and trying to get his friends to follow in his sleazy footsteps.
Why it matters: Adolescents who watch a lot of TV with sexual content are twice as likely to get pregnant or impregnate someone as kids who watch fewer of these shows.
What you can do: Watching shows that include the negative consequences of sex has been shown to be educational for teens. Talk about preventing unintended consequences such as sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies, respecting the opposite sex and not taking decisions -- like having sex -- lightly.

3. Kim Kardashian, "Keeping Up with the Kardashians"
Why she's bad: Her fame is based on ... not much. Aside from having a bodacious body and a knack for self-promotion, Kim and her sisters are the ultimate celebrity role models with nothing worth copying.
Why it matters: By middle school, kids are looking to their peers for a sense of what's socially acceptable or desirable. And celebrities, with their 24/7 presence in the media, become a gigantic super peer, whether you like it or not.
What you can do: Use celebrity news as a pathway to media literacy. Talk about how these stars make their money. Is it from making positive choices and living mild-mannered lifestyles? No. It's from getting attention for their misbehavior, their love lives, and, especially in the Kardashians' case, their physical appearance. Also, point out that stars like Kim K. get paid to promote products through Twitter, etc.

4. Goku and Gohan, "Dragon Ball Z Kai"
Why they're bad: While the father and son team from this hugely popular anime series do put forward messages about loyalty and good triumphing over evil, they solve their problems with violence -- including hand-to-hand combat, superhuman powers and guns. And their shows are marketed toward kids as young as 7, who are just learning to distinguish reality from fantasy.
Why it matters: Exposure to lots of media violence can increase antisocial activity and bullying and decrease empathy for victims of violence.
What you can do: Limit violent imagery in movies, television and games, especially for younger kids. Explain the consequences of violent behavior, and teach conflict resolution so kids have a vocabulary to use when disputes arise.

5. Tyra Banks, "America's Next Top Model"
Why she's bad:Though she talks a good game about appreciating different body types and encouraging positive behavior among her young recruits, she continues to reinforce ultra-thin physical standards and showcase backstabbing behavior on her show.
Why it matters: Girls are bombarded with messages about their appearance that reinforce unrealistic standards of thinness and beauty. Studies have shown that these messages have damaging effects on girls' self-esteem and can contribute to eating disorders and other extreme weight loss measures.
What you can do: Place less emphasis on how your teen looks than on what she can do. Show that you value her intelligence, creativity and other traits that have nothing to do with looks. And expose the myths behind the supposed perfection of models and celebrities -- use "Top Model" as a jumping-off point to talk about how photos can be digitally altered to make women appear thinner or remove blemishes; talk about how stylists, make-up artists, lighting and other special effects create the illusion of perfection.

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]]>10 Worst TV Role Modelsjersey shorekim kardashianskinssnookityra banksthe editors at Common Sense MediaFri, 27 May 2011 17:00:00 EST'Modern Family' and Me: The Men in the Mirrorhttp://www.parentdish.com/2011/05/04/modern-family/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/05/04/modern-family/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/05/04/modern-family/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Question: Where can I find the following family?

Two gay dads -- one slender and uncomfortable offering public displays of affection, the other hefty and prone to flamboyant gestures. Add one adopted daughter of another race, the youngest member of an extended family whose senior patriarch is remarried to a younger woman, which makes him now the parent of a child close in age to his grandchildren. Need a hint? Their wacky adventures are broadcast on Wednesday nights.

Answer: I just have to look in the mirror.

I've just described my family, whose adventures I chronicle here at ParentDish. But you can be forgiven if you mistakenly thought I was referring to "Modern Family," the ABC comedy. In fact, you wouldn't be alone -- our own relatives might have answered that question the same way.

Ever since the very first episode aired last year, our families, friends, co-workers and even a few casual strangers have noticed our resemblance to the sitcom's Cameron, Mitchell and Lily.

modern family

My own "Modern Family." Credit: David Valdes Greenwood

I'm the Cam in our house, the zaftig brunette who once was a clown and still loves costumes; my husband's the Mitch, the skinny guy with the gray beard who rolls his eyes at my exuberance when I'm not looking (and sometimes when I am). Our daughter, who I always nickname Diva in my writing (for obvious temperamental reasons), is actually named -- wait for it -- Lily.

So, while we were thrilled when "Modern Family" made history by showing a family like our own, it's been unsettling how eerily exact the portrait is.

Maybe it's just that I'm not sure how I feel about my personal doppelganger. When my own mother-in-law said Cam was just like me, it gave me pause: Do I really whinny that much? Are my hand motions that ridiculously expressive? Have I ever dressed Diva up like a character from a Broadway musical? (Maybe, yes and no.)

It's easy for my mother-in-law to enjoy the similarities because her counterpart is Sofia Vergara -- and who wouldn't like that? But mine is the campy dude who shops at the Big 'n Tall. Am I the only person ever to watch a sitcom and wonder, "Does this TV show make me look fat?" (Actually, life does that just fine.)

Don't get me wrong: We're hooked on the show, which makes us laugh every time, if sometimes uneasily. When Cam has an emotional outburst, or Mitchell gets all prickly, or they compete to see which husband some cutie is flirting with, it feels a little like reality TV -- as if our lives have been edited down to their most exaggerated moments for an audience of millions.

Of course, it isn't our actual reality: Our condo would fit into a wee corner of Mitch and Cam's vast mansion; our house is strewn with doll parts and laundry like a child actually lives there; and we don't have gay friends with campy names like Longinous and Crispin and Pepper.

Even so, the overlap is strong enough that each episode is accompanied by the same soundtrack in our house: snicker, snicker, wince; snicker, snicker, wince.

Maybe the show hits a little too close to home sometimes, but that's a nice problem to have. Let's face it: TV has never depicted families like mine in this way before. For all its zany exaggerations as befitting a sitcom, the show is a gift and not just to us. As our culture grows and adapts to new realities, the show is a reminder that while some family structures might seem new, the real challenges, pleasures and rewards we share are as old as time.

When "Modern Family" airs its season finale on May 25, The Hubby and I will be sure to gather in front of the HD mirror in our living room to see how we look. I just hope Cam wears something slimming.

Veronica Rhodes and David Valdes Greenwood alternate weeks writing the Family Gaytriarchs. Look for them on ParentDish every Wednesday.

David Valdes Greenwood has written about marriage and parenting for the Boston Globe and in his first book "Homo Domesticus: Notes from a Same-Sex Marriage." The author of three nonfiction books and the creator of the blog "Diva Has Two Daddies," he also finds time to be a kindergarten room parent and Barbie pretend play expert. Read his blog on Red Room.

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]]>gay adoptionGay parentshumormodern familyModern Family season 2 finalesofia vergaraDavid Valdes GreenwoodWed, 04 May 2011 11:00:00 ESTMom Was Right: Too Much TV Hurts Your Eyeshttp://www.parentdish.com/2011/04/20/too-much-tv-hurts-your-eyes/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/04/20/too-much-tv-hurts-your-eyes/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/04/20/too-much-tv-hurts-your-eyes/#commentsFiled under: ,

Watch a video on eye care for children.
watching tv

Step away from the TV. Credit: Getty Images

Scientists remain split on whether or not making goofy expressions will eventually make your face stick "like that," but research backs up something else your mother used to tell you:

Too much TV hurts your eyes.

The Daily Telegraph in London reports children -- some as young as 6 -- who watch too much TV have narrowed arteries behind their eyes. So narrow, in fact, they would spark an "OMG!" if optometrists found them in adults.

And, the Telegraph reports, retinal arterioles (those tiny arteries behind your peepers) often tell of other things going on in your body. Narrower arteries could put kids at risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes later in life.

Researchers at Sydney University in Australia found kids who spend most of the day with SpongeBob have narrower arteries than their peers who are frisking and frolicking outdoors. The study involved 1,500 children ages 6 and 7 in 34 primary schools across Sydney.

"We found children with a high level of physical activity had a more beneficial microvascular profile compared to those with the lowest levels of physical activity," lead author Bamini Gopinath tells the Telegraph.

Researchers say children usually spend almost two hours a day in front of a TV or computer screen and just 36 minutes in organized physical activity.

Those who exercised more than an hour or so had much wider retinal arteries than those who spent less than 30 minutes moving their bodies.

"We find that the changes to the arteries are quite representative of what's going on in the rest of the body," Gopinath tells the newspaper. "So the fact these changes are taking place in kids so young is very alarming."

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]]>children and healthtoo much tvtv hurts your eyesTom HendersonWed, 20 Apr 2011 12:30:00 ESTTV Review: 'The Suite Life Movie'http://www.parentdish.com/2011/04/01/tv-review-the-suite-life-movie/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/04/01/tv-review-the-suite-life-movie/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/04/01/tv-review-the-suite-life-movie/#commentsFiled under:

Watch Video Related to This Article

Zack and Cody are onto their next adventure! Credit: WireImage

Rated ON for Ages 9 and Up

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that this movie is in the same humorous, tween-friendly vein as its preceding series, "The Suite Life of Zack and Cody" and "The Suite Life on Deck." Much of the comedy is found in the contentious relationship between the twins, so kids might find some laughable similarities in their own experiences with siblings. One scene shows Cody getting joy out of watching his brother subjected to electric shock therapy, but tweens will understand the underlying humor in the exchange and see how it illustrates the strides the guys make in their relationship. Overall the movie's lasting messages about empathy and bridging differences will make an impression, so this is a fairly worry-free choice for tweens.

The good stuff

  • Messages: The movie's themes include respecting others and bridging differences between friends and family. Brothers must overcome their differences to save themselves and other subjects of a dangerous research project. Zack is a chronic rule-breaker, but he usually manages to find a way to make up for the damage he causes.
  • Role models: Zack's proclivity for troublemaking causes stress for Cody, and the two are at odds for most of the movie, but when they're forced to see things through each other's eyes, they learn to appreciate their differences.

What to watch out for

  • Violence: A scientific experiment causes Zack to receive several electrical shocks, which Cody enjoys out of vengeance. When the guys find their feelings are tied to each other, each one hits and pinches himself to inflict pain on the other. But in typical Zack and Cody style, all of this content is played for humor.
  • Sex: Some brief but strong flirting between teens, and a girl uses her looks to influence Cody to take part in a scientific experiment despite his better judgment.
  • Language: In one scene, Cody tells Zack, "I hate you."
  • Consumerism: The movie is tied to the characters' two previous shows, "The Suite Life of Zack and Cody" and "Suite Life on Deck."
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not an issue.
What's the Story?

Spring break is on the horizon, and Cody (Cole Sprouse) is counting the days to the start of his prestigious marine biology internship. Unfortunately, his plans interfere with the ones that his girlfriend, Bailey (Debby Ryan), has made for them, causing her to give him the silent treatment. Even worse, during Cody's orientation at the marine reserve, his twin brother, Zack (Dylan Sprouse), shows up and causes a ruckus, getting Cody fired and causing a rift between them. Zack tries to patch things up by getting the brothers involved in secret research at the nearby Gemini Project, but the guys soon discover that something's amiss among the participants. When the brothers start to experience each other's feelings and sensations, they must set aside their differences and tap into what connects them to uncover the truth behind the Gemini Project.

Is It Any Good?

"The Suite Life Movie" is the latest incarnation in the popular chronicles of twins Zack and Cody, and tween fans of their previous shows will find plenty of familiar content in this funny story. The boys are getting pretty grown up, but their polar-opposite personalities are still intact, which makes for a heap of laughs at each other's expense. Add to that their new ability to think and feel what the other does, and you can imagine the mayhem that ensues, culminating in a physical brawl between the guys as each inflicts pain on the other by hitting himself.

The movie makes an effort to push some positive content about sibling relationships and showing empathy, so there's some good to come of your tweens tuning in. Parents' only concern (aside from the expected implausibility of the story itself, of course) may be in the apparent joy the guys get from irritating and hurting each other -- including a couple of instances of Zack being subjected to electrical shock at Cody's hands -- but most kids will understand how that content relates to the movie's humor and helps illustrate the strides the brothers make in their relationship over the course of the story.

This review of "The Suite Life Movie" was written by Emily Ashby.

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]]>the suite life of zack and codythe editors at Common Sense MediaFri, 01 Apr 2011 09:33:00 ESTBooks, Movies, Games, and TV to Share With Kidshttp://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/25/books-movies-games-and-tv-to-share-with-kids/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/25/books-movies-games-and-tv-to-share-with-kids/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/25/books-movies-games-and-tv-to-share-with-kids/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Check out video from International Toy Fair 2011

Share these fun things to do with your kids! Credit: Getty Images

When you walk into the Common Sense Media offices, some of the first things you notice are the various piles of books, games, and DVDs that our editors have squirreled away. Sure, lots of these are for review purposes, but once the review goes live, the good stuff tends to find its way back to an editor's home (at least temporarily) to be shared with our kids.

This impulse to re-watch, re-play, or re-read our favorites inspired us to write about what we really love: great stuff to share with our kids.

Read-Aloud Books
Reading to your kids is one of the best things you can do for them (and, not incidentally, yourself!).

Books to Talk About
Once kids are reading on their own, it's fun and enlightening to discuss their impressions of the story.

Family Video Games
Even if you're not a gamer, give these family-oriented games a shot (learning a new skill together helps families bond).

Family DVDs We Love
From "Snow White" to "Harry Potter," some stories are simply timeless -- and provide a jumping-off point for conversation.

More Stuff We Love to Share

The Red Balloon
This imaginative story is told entirely through visual imagery.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
These books grow with your kids -- you'll read the first few to them, and they'll take it from there.

Lassie Come Home
This boy-and-his-dog classic is full of positive messages and helpful lessons.

Carcassonne
The French countryside comes to life in a challenging tile-laying app that will have your family huddled around the iPad.

Written by Caroline Knorr.

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Get more information for parents on media and technology by checking out Common Sense Media.


Check out our International Toy Fair coverage!

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]]>booksgamesmoviesthe editors at Common Sense MediaFri, 25 Mar 2011 10:15:00 ESTTV Review: 'Four of a Kind'http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/25/tv-review-four-of-a-kind/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/25/tv-review-four-of-a-kind/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/25/tv-review-four-of-a-kind/#commentsFiled under:

Credit: Lifetime.com

Rated ON for Ages 12 and Up

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that this docuseries - which follows a set of 17-year-old identical quadruplets during their last year of high school -- is pretty mild, but contains some iffy language ("pissed," "crap"; occasional curse words bleeped). The teens are overall good kids, but constantly bicker and occasionally talk back to their mom. Divorce and single parenthood is sometimes discussed.

The good stuff

  • Messages: The series highlights the unique and close relationship between multiples.
  • Role models: They are good kids, but sometimes the sisters talk back to their mother. At least one of the teens is very quick tempered.

What to watch out for

  • Violence: The sisters continually bicker with each other. Occasionally the girls argue with and/or talk back to their mother (and are disciplined as a result).
  • Sex: Not an issue.
  • Language: Words like "pissed" and "crap" are audible while occasional curses like "s--t" are fully bleeped.
  • Consumerism: Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not an issue.
What's the Story?

"Four of a Kind" is a reality series about the trials and tribulations of a set of teenage quadruplets. Calli, Kendra, Megan, and Sarah Durst live with their mom Naomi and older brother Travis in Buffalo, Minnesota. Cameras follow as they gossip, argue, and enjoy their senior year of high school. Living together isn't always easy, but at the end of the day the sisters are always there for each other.

Is It Any Good?

The show takes a lighthearted look at the every day lives of spirited sisters, each who have very distinct personalities despite their similar looks. They also highlight the unique attention they receive for being identical quads.

The show isn't particular exciting, especially since much is dedicated to showcasing their constant bickering. Reality fans may enjoy watching the unique dynamic between these multiples, but ultimately they are just regular teens doing regular things in Middle America.

This review of "Four of a Kind" was written by Melissa Camacho.

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]]>the editors at Common Sense MediaFri, 25 Mar 2011 09:37:00 ESTTV Review: 'Beverly Hills Fabulous'http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/18/tv-review-beverly-hills-fabulous/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/18/tv-review-beverly-hills-fabulous/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/18/tv-review-beverly-hills-fabulous/#commentsFiled under:

Watch Video Related to This Article
Rated IFFY for Ages 13-14

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that this reality series -- which follows the staff of Elgin Charles, a Beverly Hills salon that caters to an African-American clientele -- includes some of the usual reality show drama, though content is relatively mild. Expect occasional sexual discussions, some drinking (champagne, cocktails), and cursing ("piss," "ass," "damn"; stronger words are bleeped). The Elgin Charles brand is heavily promoted throughout the show.

The good stuff

  • Messages: The series combines the gossipy community culture of the traditional African-American beauty shop with some of the high-end attitude that Beverly Hills is known for.
  • Role models: Elgin Charles is the only African-American salon owner in Beverly Hills. He['s shown giving back to the African-American community through community service. On the downside, some of the Elgin Charles Salon staff are disrespectful to clients and/or assistants.

What to watch out for

  • Violence: Cast members halfheartedly threaten to smack someone on the side of the head.
  • Sex: Occasional sexually tinged discussions, including references to pole dancing. Dating and infidelity are also referenced.
  • Language: Words like "hell," "piss, " "damn," and "ass" are audible. Curses ("s--t" and "f--k") are bleeped.
  • Consumerism: The Elgin Charles hair product brand logo is frequently visible; the product sales website information is aired between segments. High-end brands like Tiffany & Co., Maserati, and Bugatti are frequently visible. Featured celebrities include Tanika Ray and Charles' ex-wife, Jackee Harry. Featured music includes hits like "Whip My Hair" by Willow Smith.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Clients are sometimes given champagne to drink during appointments. Cocktails are visible at social events.
What's the Story?

"Beverly Hills Fabulous" revolves around the staff and clientele of Elgin Charles Hair Salon, which combines Rodeo Drive glamour with traditional African-American beauty shop culture. Lively celebrity hairstylist Elgin Charles spends his time doing hair, reaching out to the African-American community, and capitalizing on his success. But expanding his salon business and promoting his product brand aren't easy, especially when his stylists -- including the arrogant Sean Cameron, the wild and confident Lolita Goods, and newcomer Katrina Atkinson -- create lots of drama thanks to their endless gossiping and diva-like attitudes. Adding to the fray are some interesting clients, who range from TV personalities to folks looking for a high-class makeover.

Is It Any Good?

The show offers a colorful look inside Beverly Hills' only African-American-owned salon and reflects the unique characteristics of the black beauty shop culture without relying on traditional racial stereotypes. Also adding to the show's flair are the "Fabulizing" segments, which show how a specific client's hair is transformed and which are designed to look more like music videos than a reality show.

Much of the staff's conversations and over-the-top behavior seem so staged for the cameras that you have to wonder whether it's scripted. Viewers may also question when the stylists actually spend time working on clients' hair. But despite the lack of authenticity, the cast members are interesting enough to make the show somewhat entertaining.

This review of "Beverly Hills Fabulous" was written by Melissa Camacho.

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]]>beverly hillsBeverlyHillsBeverlyHillsFabulousFabulousVH1the editors at Common Sense MediaFri, 18 Mar 2011 09:08:00 ESTTV Review: 'Pocoyo'http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/11/tv-review-pocoyo/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/11/tv-review-pocoyo/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/11/tv-review-pocoyo/#commentsFiled under:


pocoyo

For curious and imaginative preschoolers! Credit: pocoyo.com

Rated ON for Ages 3 and Up

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that this series will appeal to preschoolers' curiosity and imagination, and its positive messages about interpersonal relationships won't be lost on its young audience. Pocoyo exhibits negative traits that are common for this age group, including selfishness and frustration over not being able to do something his friends can, but each story shows how he identifies the problem and works to fix it. The show's brief format also encourages TV time limits for this age group, allowing kids to watch the story unfold and conclude in fewer than 10 minutes.

The good stuff

  • Educational value: Some stories incorporate basic counting and other pre-reading skills, but it's not the main intent of the show. Positive messages about relating to others and solving problems abound, though.
  • Messages: The series celebrates kids' curiosity about the world and how things work. Each story has positive messages about friendship, problem-solving, and individuality. The narrator engages viewers by asking them questions about the decisions Pocoyo faces.
  • Role models: Pocoyo often acts selfishly, looking past his friends' feelings to favor his own, but he always recognizes his mistakes and makes amends for them.

What to watch out for

  • Violence and scariness: Not an issue.
  • Sexy stuff: Not an issue.
  • Language: Not an issue.
  • Consumerism: Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, and smoking: Not an issue.
What's the Story?

"Pocoyo" is an animated series that centers on the mischievous adventures of a 4-year-old boy and his assortment of animal friends. Pocoyo (voiced by Alex Kearns) lets his insatiable curiosity guide his way, and it often takes him in unpredictable directions. Through his imaginative adventures, he discovers how the world around him works, and when his pals Pato, Loula, and Elly join him, their interactions also teach him how to be a thoughtful person and a good friend. The English version of this series was adapted from its original Spanish and is narrated by Stephen Fry.

Is It Any Good?

Pocoyo's simple, contrasting animation lends itself nicely to the show's style, which uses physical interplay and gestures rather than verbal exchanges between the characters to tell a story. The narrator speaks directly to Pocoyo, asking questions and offering encouragement, and he engages kids in the story by asking for their input as well.

Preschoolers will relate to Pocoyo's imaginative curiosity about the world, as well as his less admirable qualities like selfishness, jealousy, and frustration, which often cause problems between him and his friends. In each story, he's faced with a situation that causes him to address one of these traits, and he must figure out a way to overcome it and retain his relationship with his pals in the process. Need another reason to like it? Each segment is less than 10 minutes long, making it easy for parents to keep their preschoolers' TV time to a minimum. Check out the companion website for more Pocoyo fun.

This review of "Pocoyo" was written by Emily Ashby.

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]]>the editors at Common Sense MediaFri, 11 Mar 2011 09:15:00 ESTTV Review: 'Shedding for the Wedding'http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/04/tv-review-shedding-for-the-wedding/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/04/tv-review-shedding-for-the-wedding/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/03/04/tv-review-shedding-for-the-wedding/#commentsFiled under:



Rated IFFY for Kids 13-14

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that this series features engaged couples participating in a weight-loss competition for a dream wedding. It sends positive messages about living a healthy lifestyle, but the extreme weight-loss workouts featured here and the lack of focus on inner-beauty send some mixed messages about what it takes to lose weight and what's really important in life. The show contains some brief sexual discussions, as well as lots of bleeped language (with mouths blurred). References are made to cigarette smoking and drinking (but these acts are not visible).

The good stuff

  • Messages: The series highlights the importance of living a fit and healthy lifestyle, but also sends questionable messages about losing weight and the importance of outer beauty.
  • Role models: The trainers and nutritionist genuinely want to help couples lose weight before their wedding. The couples appear committed to each other regardless of their weight.

What to watch out for

  • Violence: Trainers yell to motivate contestants to work harder. Some competitors gag and/or collapse during work out sessions. Arguments occasionally break out between contestants.
  • Sex: Contestants briefly talk about sex and sexual acts, as well as about feeling insecure about their bodies when intimate. Weigh-ins require the men to be bare-chested and the women in spandex and sports bras.
  • Language: Words like "s--t" and "f--k" are bleeped with mouths blurred.
  • Consumerism: Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, and smoking: References to drinking beer and other alcoholic beverages. One couple wants a beer pong table at their wedding. Some of the couples are cigarette smokers and must commit to quitting.
What's the Story?

"Shedding for the Wedding" is a reality competition series hosted by Sara Rue that features engaged couples trying to lose weight and win a dream wedding. The overweight pairs go to Los Angeles and submit to a rigorous weight-loss and fitness program that requires them to endure grueling workouts with trainers Nicky Holender and Jennifer Cohen and commit to learning healthy lifestyle and eating habits with the help of celebrity nutritionist Ashley Koff. The couples also get the chance to consult with renown wedding planner Brian Worley about their wedding plans, and to compete in fitness challenges for designer wedding items. At the weekly weigh in, the two couples with the lowest combined weight loss face each other in an elimination challenge. Those who lose big get to continue in the competition in hopes of winning a fantasy wedding.

Is It Any Good?

Like most weight-loss competitions, this reality show highlights the importance of exercising and eating right in order to lose weight and be healthy. But the show's motivational tactics, like stuffing the couples into wedding dresses and tuxedos that are clearly too small for them, are sometimes more humiliating than inspiring. Meanwhile, important information, like understanding the difference between gaining muscle weight vs. losing fat, and the benefits of losing weight slowly, are exchanged for oversimplified presentations of weight-loss successes and failures.

Nonetheless, the series does offer some limited long-term advice about the importance of making a lifetime commitment to living a healthy lifestyle after the wedding is over. It also offers viewers a chance to see couples attempt to empower themselves to make positive changes in their lives. It's not always comfortable to watch, but some folks may find themselves getting motivated to make better life choices, too.

This review of "Shedding for the Wedding" was written by Melissa Camacho.

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]]>the editors at Common Sense MediaFri, 04 Mar 2011 09:06:00 ESTScary Movies and Your Kidshttp://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/25/scary-movies-kids/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/25/scary-movies-kids/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/25/scary-movies-kids/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

kids and scary movies

Kids love scary films. The trick is finding movies with age-appropriate thrills. Credit: Sony

Your 9-year-old is clambering for a scary movie at the video store. Not just any scary movie, but one where people are cut up with a hacksaw. Is it OK for her to be scared silly by something so gory? Or will she have nightmares for a month? (Will you?) It's good to know what works for kids by age, so you can keep the frights within the fun zone.

What are scary movies?

Kids love scary films. The trick is finding movies with age-appropriate thrills. Something that terrifies kids at 5 (ghosts, evil characters, major peril) will be a non-issue at 15. Scariness comes from fear of the unknown, from surprise, and from fears about the loss of a loved one. Depending on where your kids are in their emotional development, different things will affect them differently. Young kids are frightened more by creatures that older children know don't exist. Abrupt noises, eerie sounds, and music create tension in both younger and older children. Psychological suspense, with its threats of impending doom, can terrify your middle-school kids.

The facts

  • The younger kids are when they see a scary movie or TV show, the longer-lasting the effects will be.
  • Kids who watch scary material often have nightmares or anxiety.
  • Kids ages 2 to 7 often can't distinguish between fantasy and reality.
Why they matter

Movies with scary images, intense danger, loud noises, and -- above all -- blood and gore, can create all sorts of disturbances. Among them are anxiety, sleep disruption, and fears about possible situations. Children younger than 7 can't easily distinguish between fantasy and reality -- even if you tell them "it's not real." You will know if your kids have become too frightened when they start having sleep problems, irrational fears, and obsessions with things like zombies. Scary and disturbing images and sounds can affect vulnerable kids for years.

Tips for parents of all kids

  • Know what they're watching -- and whether it's appropriate. Check out Common Sense Media reviews, which offer age recommendations and provide age-appropriate selections.
  • Practice your poker face. Some research suggests that kids will become more scared if they see that you are scared by something in a movie or on TV.
Tips for parents of young kids

  • Choose media with care. Kids under 7 will believe what they see. When picking media, nothing should be more startling than "Boo!" Kids over 5 may like haunted houses, mysteries, and things popping out everywhere, but stick to animation, which helps them realize that it's fantasy. Be careful with monsters, skeletons, aliens, and zombies. Avoid any dangerous material involving characters near their age.
  • Be prepared for when things do go bump in the night. If your child is frightened, give him physical comfort, a glass of water, or a distraction. Kids 2 to 7 respond well to magical remedies and nightly rituals, such as cleaning the monsters out of the closet.
  • Don't be surprised if your kids suddenly like a little scary stuff. Kids who are 8-to-10 years old can handle being scared for longer periods of time -- in fact, they love it. Bring on the phantoms and ghoulish faces, but continue to choose films without gore or physical harm. Some intense moments are fun as long as the resolution involves a happy ending.
Tips for parents of middle school kids


  • Pushing boundaries may be OK. Some kids of this age are ready to be scared silly. You still should be mindful of blood and gore, but in general skeletons, monsters, and aliens are okay. Even so, stick to movies that have humor mixed in, or those with safe-and-sound endings.
  • Give reassurance when necessary. Other kids still scare easily. Middle school is when scary movies start being a big part of sleepovers and movie outings with friends. Even if your child isn't ready for the scarier stuff, it can be hard for her to tell that to friends who want to see the latest zombie flick. Let your children know that it's OK to be scared and to tell their friends they'd rather watch something else.
Tips for parents of high school kids

  • They may be ready for more than you think. Developmentally, teens can handle dramatic and psychological suspense, but kids under 16 still shouldn't see slasher horrors, especially those that feature kids in dire danger or that have lots of gore.
  • Mind the messages. Many scary movies now pair horrific graphic violence with sexual situations -- not a great combination for kids exploring newfound sexuality. Be sure to talk with them about the content of the movie they're seeing and the messages it may convey. Check Common Sense Media's reviews for conversation starters.
  • Dig into the vault. If you like scary movies too, try introducing your teens to some of the horror and suspense classics. Just make sure that any younger siblings are already tucked in bed.

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]]>the editors at Common Sense MediaFri, 25 Feb 2011 15:50:00 ESTTV Review: 'Tinga Tinga Tales'http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/25/tv-review-tinga-tinga-tales/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/25/tv-review-tinga-tinga-tales/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/25/tv-review-tinga-tinga-tales/#commentsFiled under:



Rated ON for Ages 4 and Up

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that these African folk tales cater to kids' natural sense of curiosity and will inspire their own creative thinking about the world around them. East African-inspired art and music complement the beautiful stories about how safari animals came to look and act as they do today, and at the heart of each tale is a positive lesson about relating to others and being a good person. This series is a great way to increase kids' appreciation of the world's cultural diversity.

The good stuff

  • Educational value: The series increases kids' awareness of other cultures and exposes them to different styles of storytelling.
  • Messages: The series exposes kids to African-inspired stories, music, and art, and each story promotes a social theme like sharing, kindness, or courage. The stories cater to kids' natural curiosity about their surroundings and encourage them to think creatively about the way the world looks and works.
  • Role models: Each of the characters is strong and wise in his own way, but each also has room to improve, as the stories show. Whether their changes are physical or social, the animals learn that positive behavior is rewarded and negative behavior has consequences.

What to watch out for

  • Violence & scariness: Not an issue.
  • Sexy stuff: Not an issue.
  • Language: Not an issue.
  • Consumerism: The show is linked to a series of books for preschoolers.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not an issue.
What's the Story?

"Tinga Tinga Tales" uses Tanzanian-inspired art to bring animal-centered African folk tales to life. Stories like "Why Lizard Hides Under Rocks" and "Why Lion Roars" put a multicultural spin on the theory of evolution and illustrate interpersonal issues like the importance of sharing, having courage in the face of fear, and being humble.

Is It Any Good?

This beautifully animated series exposes kids to rich African culture through art, music, and timeless storytelling that will change the way they (and possibly you) look at the world's animal inhabitants. The intriguing tales were gathered from a range of African nations, and each one takes kids on a fantastical safari adventure to discover the reasons behind the natural world's diversity. Although the show is geared toward preschoolers, its stories and social messages won't be lost on older kids who tune in, and it will inspire them to think creatively about how the world got to be the way it is today.

"Tinga Tinga Tales" is a great introduction to multicultural arts and heritage, and its brief format (each story is only 15 minutes long) caters to parents who want to share quality entertainment with their kids in small doses. And since the stories also incorporate positive messages about personal and social responsibility, there will be plenty to discuss about how the animals' experiences relate to your kids' lives after the TV's turned of.

This review was written by Emily Ashby.

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]]>the editors at Common Sense MediaFri, 25 Feb 2011 09:06:00 ESTTV Review: 'Jake and the Never Land Pirates'http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/18/tv-review-jake-and-the-never-land-pirates/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/18/tv-review-jake-and-the-never-land-pirates/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/18/tv-review-jake-and-the-never-land-pirates/#commentsFiled under:



Rated ON for Ages 3 and Up

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that preschoolers will love this colorful, fun, adventurous cartoon, and the fact that it's packed with positive social messages about solving problems, being a good friend, and appreciating individuality makes it a great choice for this age group. Basic academic skills like counting and sorting are included in the content, and the show's style encourages kids' involvement throughout, and its use of music and humor will keep kids entertained.

The good stuff

  • Educational value: The show incorporates basic preschool skills like counting and sorting.
  • Messages: Social themes like friendship, teamwork, and respect for others all have a place in the show's content. Each story centers on a pint-sized problem of some kind (a favorite object is taken, for instance), and the kids use their own creative thinking to solve the problems as a team, earning rewards for the whole group as they go. Despite being the show's "villain," Captain Hook enjoys a mischievous and playful relationship with Jake, Izzy, and Cubby.
  • Role models: The kids have individual skills that allow them to work better as a team, and they appreciate each other's contributions. Captain Hook is always gracious in defeat and more playful with the kids than he is frightening.
What to watch out for

  • Violence & scariness: Cartoon falls and minor accidents don't result in injury and are played for humor.
  • Sexy stuff: Not an issue.
  • Language: Not an issue.
  • Consumerism: Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not an issue.
What's the Story?

The tropical paradise of Pirate Island is the perfect place for the adventures of young scallywags like Jake (voiced by Colin Ford), Izzy (Madison Pettis), and Cubby (Jonathan Morgan Heit), who embark on fun-filled escapades on their trusty ship, Bucky. Unfortunately, their travels bring them into the path of Captain Hook (Corey Burton) and his sidekick, Mr. Smee (Jeff Bennett), and the troublesome pair never lacks ideas for disrupting the kids' plans and capturing their treasures. It takes ingenuity and teamwork to outwit their rivals and return safely to their secret hideout on the island, but this quick-thinking trio -- along with their parrot friend, Skully (David Arquette) -- is up to the challenge.

Is It Any Good?

Preschoolers will be drawn to "Jake and the Never Land Pirates" because of its colorful characters and sense of adventure, and the show's humor and interactive style will sweep them away on imaginative journeys along with Jake and his gang. For parents, the real treasure can be found in how the show blends positive social messages about getting along with others and solving problems into the stories. No interaction -- not even those between the kids and the meddlesome Captain Hook -- is wasted, as each one exemplifies respect and kindness, and the importance of teamwork to achieve a goal is the dominant theme.

What's more, kids are encouraged to take an active role in each story, from singing along with the pirate band to tallying the doubloons the characters earn with each problem solved. They're made to feel one of the team, complete with a sense of accomplishment about a job well done at the end, and you'll feel good knowing that the messages they're getting from this show are happy ones.

This review was written by Emily Ashby

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]]>the editors at Common Sense MediaFri, 18 Feb 2011 07:11:00 EST'Wild Kratts' Get Frisky With ParentDishhttp://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/15/wild-kratts/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/15/wild-kratts/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/15/wild-kratts/#commentsFiled under:



When the Kratt brothers came to visit ParentDish, things got a little wild.

Chris and Martin Kratt star in PBS Kids' "Wild Kratts," which combines animation and live action to teach kids about the amazing world of animals. The Kratts brought along two of their furry (and fiesty) friends: a kinkajou and a white Bengal tiger cub. Check out more exotic animal adventures on "Wild Kratts!"

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]]>kinkajouwhite bengal tigerWhiteBengalTigerwild krattsWildKrattsColleen Egan and Damon ScheleurTue, 15 Feb 2011 16:49:00 ESTTV Review: 'House of Anubis'http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/11/tv-review-house-of-anubis/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/11/tv-review-house-of-anubis/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/11/tv-review-house-of-anubis/#commentsFiled under:



Rated ON for Ages 8 and Up

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that this mystery series offers a tween-friendly package of suspense and drama with little worry about its content. The teens are good models of teamwork and respect, and their experiences with crushes, love triangles, and friendship struggles have some positive messages for tweens. There is a strong tie-in to the show's website, so it's a good idea to remind kids about your rules for Internet use before giving them the go-ahead.

The good stuff

  • Educational value: The show intends to entertain rather than to educate.
  • Messages: The show has empowering messages about the strength of teamwork and the sense of accomplishment to be found in seeing a challenge through to its end. The teens must use a variety of problem-solving tactics to unravel the mysterious clues they're given. The show has a multicultural cast and looks favorably on teens with its mostly amiable characters. The downside is that the show's plot twists mean that it's not always easy to tell who's being honest and sincere.
  • Role models: Most teens display positive qualities like respect, responsibility, dependability, and an insatiable curiosity that keeps their interest in the mysteries. At least one adult character is said to be a villain.

What to watch out for

  • Violence & scariness: No violence, but the story hinges on mysterious happenings and the unsolved disappearance of a teen. Tension runs high when spooky things happen (writing appears on walls, objects are knocked over by an unseen force, etc.).
  • Sexy stuff: Teen crushes include some kissing and hand-holding, but overall the show puts these relationships in a positive light. There's no giddiness or suggestive content, but rather a mature approach to dating from teens who care about and respect each other.
  • Language: Not an issue.
  • Consumerism: The show is linked to a website that allows viewers to try to solve the story's mysteries and offers additional clues that accompany those they see in each episode.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not an issue.
What's the Story?

"House of Anubis" is a teen drama that follows the mysterious happenings in a dormitory at a British boarding school. The story starts with the arrival of an American student, Nina (Nathalia Ramos), and the simultaneous disappearance of Joy (Klariza Clayton). Joy's best friend, Patricia (Jade Ramsey), is suspicious of the newcomer, but Nina makes a fast friend of the studious Fabian (Brad Kavanagh). Joy's disappearance also corresponds with eerie and unexplained events throughout the house, and a handful of students set out to find out what's behind them. Meanwhile, Nina's new acquaintance with an elderly woman named Sarah (Rita Davies), who lived in the House of Anubis when she was young, may hold the key to unraveling all of the mysteries.

Is It Any Good?

"House of Anubis" has a lot to offer the tween set, from age-appropriate chills to some positive models in the teen characters. The show is a good stepping stone to scarier mysteries for kids who are new to this kind of content, as its light-fare suspense isn't likely to really scare viewers of this age. As for the teens themselves, they're a pretty likable bunch, and they navigate the choppy waters of love triangles and friendship woes with a fair amount of grace.

Tweens who do tune in may be tempted by plugs for them to visit the show's website to play games, read more about the show, and use clues from each episode to solve mysteries on the site. Parents can use this opportunity to talk to their kids about Internet safety and to reiterate their rules about Internet use.

This review was written by Emily Ashby.

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]]>the editors at Common Sense MediaFri, 11 Feb 2011 13:08:00 ESTHow TV Can Save Your Daughter (Sort of)http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/08/how-tv-can-save-your-daughter-sort-of/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/08/how-tv-can-save-your-daughter-sort-of/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/08/how-tv-can-save-your-daughter-sort-of/#commentsFiled under:

child watching television picture

The media shapes body image opinions. Credit: Getty Images

When my 6-year-old daughter told me she hates her "fat thighs" the other morning, part of me wanted to cry ("She's only 6!" I kept thinking). The other part of me wanted to boycott every TV show, movie, website, and magazine that shows a severely limited picture of girls and women -- teaching my daughter that girls come in only one body type, or one color, or one personality.

While I know media isn't the only culprit when it comes to shaping girls' opinions about themselves, it sure is a strong force. Knowing how important it is to offer my own messages to the mix when it comes to body image and positive female role models, I tried the discussion approach with my daughter.

On the way home from school, I struck up a conversation about genetics. I told her how the shape of our bodies -- at least to some extent -- reflect the bodies of our mothers, our grandmothers, and great-grandmothers. I shared (in edited form) some of my own struggles with body image, and talked about how loving your body can be difficult at times, but making peace with the body you have can result in a powerful inner confidence.

As I finished speaking, I was feeling pretty good about myself. ("Nice job, mama!" I thought.) From the back seat of the car came her response: "Is my great-grandma dead?" The conversation quickly spiraled into a discussion about death, aging, cancer, and all sorts of morbid topics. That's when I realized that while 6 might not be too young to start complaining about your body, it was too young for a conversation about the family gene pool.

I'd have to find another way into that developing little mind of hers ... something we both can relate to ... television! As a TV fan and critic myself, I know a lot about what's on TV. And let me tell you -- a lot of it is garbage. Especially when it comes to girls and women. Girls in animated TV shows are commonly drawn with teeny tiny waists (Tinkerbell, anyone?). Romance, fame, and fashion are common tween TV themes -- all of which emphasize appearance over physical strength or intellect. And then when kids get older, they have "Skins" and "Gossip Girl", where girls are fashion plates or objects of male fantasy.

These are not the images I want embedded into my daughter's quickly developing sense of self. I want her to grow up with images of girls who use their bodies to climb mountains and their brains to improve the national economy. Not Snooki. Not the plastic surgery seekers of "Bridalplasty". Not even Tinkerbell.

So from this conversation came a pledge. I pledge to seek out TV that supports my vision for my daughter. It's out there, I'd just need to dig a bit deeper. I've put together a list of shows that I think give girls (and boys) positive female role models. These characters aren't always perfect -- sometimes they make mistakes (even big ones) -- but they learn from them. And they give our daughters a wider sense of who girls are, and who they can be.

And even though my first discussion about body image and girl role models didn't go so well, I won't stop trying.

Here are a few discussions to have in your back pocket for when the time is right:
  • Point out when female characters are rewarded for positive action, rather than how they look.
  • Look for shows that depict girls being nice to each other. A lot of TV shows emphasize girl fights and drama -- or fighting over a guy.
  • Acknowledge women in high places. Oprah, Katie Couric, Condoleeza Rice -- these women have all achieved a lot by not letting their gender hold them back.
  • Teach healthy skepticism of fairytale endings. Challenge the message of the princess living happily ever after because she married a prince. Maybe the princess really wanted to become an astronaut?
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]]>the editors at Common Sense MediaTue, 08 Feb 2011 14:30:00 ESTTV Review: 'Design Squad Nation'http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/04/tv-review-design-squad-nation/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/04/tv-review-design-squad-nation/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/04/tv-review-design-squad-nation/#commentsFiled under:


Rated ON for Ages 6 and Up

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that this smart, thought-provoking series -- which is a spin-off of Design Squad -- is a great way to introduce kids to the practical applications of science and engineering. With kid-inspired projects ranging from a bike-powered musical instrument to a skateboarding street course, the show's diverse content demonstrates how engineering relates to a variety of interests. There's plenty to learn from the show's experts, who explain their designs in a kid-friendly way and incorporate scientific terms and definitions in their dialogue.

The good stuff

Educational value: The series exposes viewers to the usefulness of engineering. The hosts take care to explain in detail all of their actions, and animated sketches make it easy for kids to understand how simple machines work. Unfamiliar words like "solenoid" and "bellows" are shown on the screen with their definitions.

Messages: Common themes include teamwork, determination, and creative problem solving. The show encourages viewers to think outside the box, identifying problems they'd like to see solved or inventions they think would help people.

Role models: The show's diverse cast includes both boys and girls -- as well as male and female hosts -- which sends positive messages about equal opportunity in traditionally male careers like engineering. Adam and Judy are receptive to the teens' suggestions and encourage them to get hands-on with the projects. The teens are curious about how things work, excited about seeing their visions become a reality, and open to a new respect for the usefulness of engineering because of it.

What to watch out for

Violence & scariness: Not an issue.

Sexy stuff: Not an issue.

Language: Not an issue.

Consumerism: Kids are encouraged to visit the show's website to submit photos or sketches of their own inventions.

Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not an issue.

What's the Story?

In "Design Sqad Nation," engineers Adam Vollmer and Judy Lee travel the globe to help kids make their design dreams a reality. Whether it's creating a mobile garden for teens to sell homegrown produce to restaurants or building a human-powered flying machine, there's no task too challenging for this enthusiastic pair of hosts. Each episode follows the design and building process and culminates in a public unveiling of the finished product.

Is It Any Good?

If only every TV series offered the content that's packed into this well-rounded show, which is a spin-off of "Design Squad." From the obvious benefits of exposing kids to useful applications of science to strong messages about creative thinking, teamwork, and problem solving, there's no end to the positive takeaways available here. The show also reflects the shift in the traditionally white male-dominated field of engineering by casting male and female hosts and incorporating a racially diverse pool of boys and girls.

That's not to say the show is all about learning. There's plenty of fun to be had watching how this team brings kids' creations to life, and it's sure to spark some interesting conversations with your kids about their own inventive ideas. Add a little quality family time and some group ingenuity to the mix, and those same ideas could become fun projects for the whole family.

Reviewed by Emily Ashby


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]]>design squad nationDesignSquadNationthe editors at Common Sense MediaFri, 04 Feb 2011 11:56:00 ESTDealing With Media Violence: Tips for Parentshttp://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/03/media-violence/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/03/media-violence/http://www.parentdish.com/2011/02/03/media-violence/#commentsFiled under: , ,

law and order picture

Detective Stabler holds a gun in Law and Order: Special Victims Unit. Credit: Will Hart, NBC



The typical 11-year-old has seen nearly 8,000 murders on TV. Yet most of us aren't shocked. That's because we've all grown used to seeing a lot of violence -- especially in movies and video games. Studies tell us that kids who see a lot may be more aggressive. They may even learn that hurting others is OK. They need you to help them understand violence -- real and virtual.

What is media violence?

Media violence ranges from cartoon slapstick to bloody gore, and it's in everything our kids watch and play. If you've tried a T- or M-rated video game lately, or seen a cop show or music video, you've seen this kind of violence. It's in practically every form of kids' entertainment.

Video games allow players to attack and kill one another, sometimes in very graphic ways. Studies show that aggressive video gaming affects kids. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics says that "playing violent video games leads to adolescent violence like smoking leads to lung cancer."

The facts
  • It's not your imagination. Media has become more violent, graphic, sexual, and sadistic (Media Awareness Network, 2010).
  • Media violence is especially damaging to children under 8 because they cannot easily tell the difference between real life and fantasy (American Academy of Pediatrics, 1995).
  • Research indicates that when they are exposed to media violence, kids can become more aggressive, become insensitive to violence, have more nightmares, and develop a fear of being harmed (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2001).
  • A sample of 77 PG-13-rated films included 2,251 violent actions, with almost half resulting in death (UCLA, 2007)
Why it matters

When kids watch media and play games loaded with violence, studies show it can lead to harmful acts and bullying. And the more aggressive behavior kids see, the more it becomes an acceptable way to settle conflicts. They may even become less sensitive to those who suffer from real violence.

Younger kids are particularly vulnerable to the health effects of media violence -- especially kids under 7, who often can't tell the difference between fantasy and reality. The younger kids are, the more long-lasting the effects. These include nightmares and anxiety, and fearing that the world is scary and mean.

Tips for parents of all kids
  • Explain consequences. What parent hasn't heard "but there's no blood" as an excuse for watching a movie or playing a video game? Explain the true consequences of violence. Point out how unrealistic it is for people to get away with violent behavior.
  • Keep an eye on the clock. Don't let kids spend too long with virtual violence. The more time spent immersed in violent content, the greater its impact and influence.
  • Teach conflict resolution. Most kids know that hitting someone on the head isn't the way to solve a disagreement, but verbal cruelty is also violent. Teach kids how to use their words responsibly to stand up for themselves without throwing a punch.
  • Know your kids' media. Check out ratings and, when there are none, find out about content. Content in a 1992 R-rated movie is now acceptable for a PG-13. Streaming online videos are not rated and can showcase very brutal stuff.
Advice by age
  • 2- to 4-year-old kids often see cartoon violence. But keep them away from anything that shows physical aggression as a means of conflict resolution, because they'll imitate what they see.
  • For 5- to 7-year-olds, cartoon rough-and-tumble, slapstick, and fantasy violence are okay, but violence that could result in death or serious injury is too scary.
  • 8- to 10-year-olds can handle action-hero sword fighting or gunplay as long as there's no gore.
  • For 11- to 12-year-olds, historical action is okay, including battles, fantasy clashes, and duels. But close-ups of gore or graphic violence (alone or combined with sexual situations) aren't recommended.
  • Kids ages 13-17 can and will see shoot-'em-ups, blow-'em-ups, high-tech violence, accidents with disfigurement or death, anger, and gang fighting. Point out that the violence portrayed hurts and causes suffering. And limit time exposure to violence, especially in video games.
  • Most M-rated games aren't right for kids under 17 years of age. The kid down the street may have the latest cop-killer game, but that doesn't mean it's good for him. The ultra-violent behavior, often combined with sexual images, is not good for developing brains. Just because your child's friend is allowed to play violent games or watch violent movies doesn't mean they are okay for your child.
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]]>violence in moviesViolence in Video Gamesviolence on televisionViolenceInMoviesViolenceInVideoGamesViolenceOnTelevisionthe editors at Common Sense MediaThu, 03 Feb 2011 15:00:00 EST