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Next month is Zee’s 7th birthday and there’s one thing that he’s mentioned a few times that he’d like as a gift – a TV for his bedroom. Aside from 2 occasions where they’ve had a sleepover in the bedroom, the boys have never been allowed screens there.
Up until recently there hasn’t been an issue, but after having more playdates he’s seen full hd tvs in a few friends rooms and it’s sparked his interest. 75% of children want a TV in their room, so he’s not alone. But he’s going to be disappointed this year as it’s not something we’re will to do.
Some people may think we’re wrong, and I’m sure there are many children out there with a TV in their room with no issues. But we have our reasons and for now we are going to stand firm.
Why We Won’t Allow A TV In Our Son’s Bedroom
Younger Siblings
First and foremost, my children share a bedroom. They always have done and the plan is for it to continue for the foreseeable future. They enjoy sharing a room and aren’t keen on the idea of separating them at this point.
The issue with this is even if we thought a tv for the bedroom would be suitable for Zee, that doesn’t mean it’s suitable for JJ. There is 2 years between them and we definitely don’t want JJ having a tv in his room yet. Never mind the fact I think it would cause even more arguments with each other if they have it in there!
Healthy Sleep Habits
We work hard on encouraging healthy sleep habits. Although they have some toys in their bedroom, they are mostly out of sight in the cupboard to keep the room as a calm area for sleep.
As part of that the boys don’t have screens before bed. Instead of opt for the usual bath, book, bed routine. Zee struggles with switching off to fall asleep so he then listens to sleep meditations and audiobooks on his Yoto player in bed with the lights off.
Learn more using a Yoto Player to wind down and calm overstimulated kids
Adding a TV to the bedroom would add the temptation to watch TV before bed, or even in bed, regularly. At this stage in their lives I’m not willing to let them have the option.
Home Layout
I can think of many situations where having a TV in a bedroom would be beneficial. Kids wanting to play on games consoles can dominate the family television and so it makes sense that they would have space to play elsewhere.
We are very privileged to have 2 televisions in our house already, with space to watch in the kitchen or the living room. Although the boys love to play on the Switch to watch Netflix I can easily slip into the other room if I want to have the TV on for myself or JHogg. There is no need for a 3rd TV.
Parental Supervision
At the end of the day Zee is a child, and it’s out responsibility to ensure what he is watching or doing is age appropriate and safe. By having TVs, and screens of any kind, being used out in the open it is easier to keep an eye on what is happening and keep the children safe.
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