Media Message

Questions to Ask While Watching TV With Children

Consequences of Violence:

What would happen in real life as a result of this violence?
Who would be sad? Who would cry?
Who would fix everything that has been broken? Who would pay for the damage? How much would it cost?
What would happen if you tried that at home?
Who would have to go to the emergency room? How long would it take to be seen by a doctor? Who would pay the doctor bills?

We can also help young children understand that:

TV can make things look different than they are in real life.
TV programs are made by people.
Some storytellers are more trustworthy than others.
It is a good thing to think about what we see on TV and to ask questions.

If you would like a copy of PBS 45 & 49’s Guide to Media Literacy, call Bree Silski at or download it from the PBS 45 & 49 web site (http://www.pbs4549.org/RTL.HTM).