Television is one of the many available means of entertainment and it has become an important part of children's lives. Television, at the top of the entertainment list, can have positive effects on children's development and behaviors, but television and other types of media can also negatively influence children's perceptions of themselves. identity, their gender roles, their norms and their behaviors. ObjectiveThe objective of this article is:• To show the effects that television and other media have on children's perceptions of themselves, others and their behaviors• To show ways to minimize or effectively control viewing television and other media• To guide parentsIntroductionTelevision has been a part of our lives since the beginning In the 1920s and early 1960s, networks began airing cartoons on weekend mornings end. By the end of the decade, watching Saturday morning cartoons was a ritual in many households, including my own as well. I remember Howdy Doody, The Mickey Mouse Club, Secret Garden, Sesame Street, Electric Company, Captain Kangaroo, Hanna Bar-Berra and other shows. I remember those Lego Toy commercials; Rock 'Em & Sock 'Em Robots and the Barbie commercials as well. I remember running home after school just to watch my favorite Bugs Bunny show. I remember pressuring my parents to get the latest Barbie and Ken dolls just because I saw an advert advertising the pair with dynamite outfits that I just had to have in addition to my collection of at least 20 outfits and shoes already. TELEVISION/OTHER MEDIA Television has become the number one source of entertainment, with video games, music videos, and other media rapidly climbing the ranks. Media is used as a means of survival in some cases, and makes... middle of paper ...... a good role model, parents don't put a TV in your room and then deny your child the same . luxury, television should be a family activity and limited to the living room or family room. Never allow television or radio to be played during family, homework or play time, as they can be potential distractions. Television and other media should be a privilege; it should be earned• Talk to your children about television, the good and the badIn conclusion, television, old and new media can have a huge impact on our children's lives, it can be a positive or negative experience. It is up to us as parents to monitor our children's use as much as possible. Remember that it can be difficult to get children back once they are lost. Use the time you have to spend with them, have family game nights or read together, and know that it will be time well spent, your children need you..