The clock strikes 9 and everyone flocks to the sitting room and takes position in front of the TV. Nobody is ready to budge before 12. This is the story of most Indian homes. No matter what you watch, National Geographic or Star Plus, MTV or Star WorldTV is a constant companion during our evenings. We switch it on at dinner time and it goes on and on and on till past midnight. Some children even need TV to be able to study!!!
Is this the state of affairs in your home? Are you and your family forever on a dinner date with your TV? If yes, you would probably want to know what is wrong with things as they are, and why should you switch off the TV at least while you dine.
How TV-And-Dinner Combo Spoils Things
The first and foremost reason why you should switch off the TV during dinner is health related. Research proves that watching TV dulls our awareness of fullness. This means that you and your family tend to over-eat just coz you are eating with the TV switched on.
If you have children, it is even more important that the TV be turned off during dinner time. Kids are known to do better at school and be happier if they eat with families, without the intrusion of TV.
Research also proves that your childs verbal communication skills develop during the special family time you spend together. If this time is spent watching TV, how can the child learn verbal skills?
Dinner time is usually the only time that a family sits down together for a meal. This is a special time that helps a family bond and share closeness. Dont let your TV ruin that.
Alternatives
While having dinner, you can play soft relaxing music with the volume adjusted to a low level. This will relax everyone and also stimulate conversation.
When you are not having dinner, it is still a good idea to cut down on your TV time. The time you save by not watching TV can be used to :
Read Books
Enjoy Music
Visit Friends (Or have friends/relatives visit you and develop a social circle).
Cook meals
Listen to music and dance around
Talk and Discuss Issues.
Play Sports or Indoor Games.
