The TV debate

Recently, Channel 4 has put on some really interesting and educational programmes which Ethan and I have enjoyed watching, these include Rome Wasn't Built In A Day, http://www.channel4.com/programmes/rome-wasnt-built-in-a-day 
and The Elephant: Life After Death http://www.channel4.com/programmes/the-elephant-life-after-death

There seems to be a feeling among some HE families and mainstream families too, that the use of a TV is unnecessary, and actually hinders the learning process in their children. To some extent I agree with this. I certainly do not allow my children to spend countless hours sat goggle-eyed in front of pointless moving pictures and excessive sound.
I do however, believe there are many benefits to having a TV - if only for occasional use. The documentaries which I find are varied and almost invaluable when used as visual support to any written work Ethan may be doing.
Recent topics have included The Romans (which includes visits to Roman villas, aqueducts and Roman baths), general biology and geography, including life processes, plant and animal cell function, and how the environment affects change to both animal and human life.
I have been able to find good supporting material, which allows Ethan to see what he has learned via textbooks, and practical experience, and it gives him a psychological break from books and talking about something (in his own words).

I can understand some of the reasons behind not wanting to have a TV in the house. It can and does teach violence, bad language, narrow viewpoints on some aspects of society, and promotes lethargy in general. And I don't think we have to search too hard to find adequate evidence supporting this. 
However, I am an advocate of active parenting. That is not to say that everything I do is done with the use of a Lycra jumpsuit and excessive bouncing about, or midnight dances round an elm tree dressed only in leaves and twigs. No. Instead I opt for the harder route. I do not ban a TV from my house. I see that as the easy option. Anyone can do that. Instead, I actively control what my children see and how much of it they see. 
There are 'no TV' times during the day, and at other times, it is only what I put on which is available to be watched.
Yes, it takes some planning, and vigilance (teenagers will always try to sneak a quick episode of Dr Who in when they think they can) but I believe it teaches them self control 
and responsible viewing...after all, when they eventually leave home for the big wide world I wont be there 24/7 will I?


Loz