Children watch TV and use computers for five hours daily on average. But electronic media demands conflict with the needs of children. The result? Record levels of learning difficulties, obesity, eating disorders, sleep problems, language delay, aggressive behaviour, anxiety - and children on fast forward.However, Set Free Childhood shows how to counter screen culture and create a calmer, more enjoyable family life with:
Striking research on how the TV ''tunes out'' the brain and affects child growth
Why doctors and educators say ''the later the better'' for electronic media use
Successful media coping strategies for families to prevent electronic addiction
Countering pester power by making childhood a commercial-free zone''His practical suggestions empower readers to take charge of their children's upbringing and make it essential reading for all parents.'' Five to Eleven''I was struck by the research on how we go into sleep mode when we watch TV. I want my child to be alert, creative and interested!'' Helen Royall, parent''Excessive media viewing is a disease of our times ... it is surely time to recognize the problem and change our behaviour. It is my great hope that this book will help bring about such a change.'' Joan Almon, US Alliance for Childhood''Very useful for parents and educator questioning what is really needed for the healthy development of our children''. Christopher Clouder, Alliance for ChildhoodMartin Large is a facilitator, behavioural scientist and father of 4 children. He wrote, ''Who's Bringing Them Up? Kicking the TV Habit''. He campaigns for banning advertising directed at children and against the commercialisation of childhood. Set Free Childhood has been translated into Polish, Mandarin, Korean, and Spanish
