Influence of television on child nutrition
Watching television is one of the most favorite ways of spending leisure time across all the age groups. Different television channels are there which are so entertaining, and keep the children glued to the screen for hours as well. Sometimes the parents also keep the television set on and make their kids watch their favorite cartoon channel so that they can finish their chores in time. Another pivotal role of television is to make the kids eat their meals while watching it. As per the teachers of Preschool Rolling Hills Estates, CA, some of them are so addicted to the TV during their mealtime that they open their mouths during their lunch or snack time only if the television set is on.
An advertisement that occurs in between the break time has ample influence in the kids' minds. Most of the food products related advertisements promote unhealthy snacks, which in turn make the child demand the same from their parents. If their favorite cartoon character loves to eat cheesecakes, they may ask for the same every day in their diet without believing the fact that too much of these things are not good for health. Children stare at some of the calorie-dense food products which appear in the commercials that are high in fat and sugar. The glittery commercials highlight the fun and happiness one will have after consuming that product which includes both food and beverage, which actually has very low nutritional value.
As per the teachers of Daycare Rolling Hills Estates CA, most of the food products shown in the commercials do not promote a child's growth. Those high in fats, sugars, sodium, and calorie-rich foods lack vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. We know that fruits, vegetables, whole-grain foods, dairy products are essential for the healthy development of the child. A balanced diet is necessary for their growth. But children are allured to pizza, pasta, noodles, candy, chips, and other sugar-sweetened beverages shown in the advertisements.
Most of the children’s food preferences are formed during early childhood. It is high time when he should learn what food is good for him and whatnot. So children influenced by advertisements are at higher risk of forming life-long preferences for foods laden in calories, fat, and added sugars since they are drooled by the commercials. They are also at increased risk for obesity.
Parent-child communication and awareness to the child from an early age by the parents, caregivers, and the school could be a very good approach in eliminating the misconception of consuming such less nutritive products and indulging in home-cooked healthy food. The parents should make the child understand that advertisements are nothing but marketing strategies that most of the time make people purchase things that are not important along with the teachers of Preschool Rolling Hills Estates, CA.
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