Final Post-What does television teach our children

I was watching my son play the other night and he began talking about something that was on television. I wasnt anything harsh or anything but it wasnt exactly Nick toons either. Afer about 5 minutes he picked up a toy cell phone and began to act as if he was calling the police. Now we have had the police discussion and he has been told to call them and how, IF there is an emergency, however he went on to call the police and told them to pull out there guns because he dad told him no he could not have something and yelled at him. Now I didnt stop him, I just sat back and listened to what he was saying and then I stepped in and corrected him but I was baffled. I of course got in his case about the police and again explained to him what they are REALLY there for, but at the same time Ihad to think. Where would such a thought come from. And as I think back, I look at many of the programs on television and just about everything has some degree of violence in it. If he is not seeing the violence on everyday television its in the videos. Its hard because part of me feels like I have to stop him from watching any and everything on TV. Including spongebob because there were a few episodes where he was arrested as well. What is this showing our children? How do we as parents stop the children from seeing this type of activity and getting the negative images in their heads?

Response to Daphne post

Interesting topic, I dont know if I can be as open minded about it. But the points you put out makes me think. I do think as a family you and your mate should do what is best for you and your family, your children etc. And if it means him staying home while you work then its really up to the both of you. I didnt see that special but it really is something to give some thought to.

Week 6

This is an interesting topic because my son watches all of these cartoons. I personally never looked at Dora in such a light to question what gender message she is portraying, however I do love to watch the show. I think its educational as well as fulfilling for young children. I feel that children can learn and grow with Dora. There are a lot of positive messages in her show. Dora takes the time to put pieces together for task and attack the task. All while doing this she is encouraging the children watching to interact with her and do these task as well. One thing I will say I have noticed with Dora and men over the years is that boys love her, and the fathers, my husband included dont think its appropriate to let their sons watch Dora or play with Dora toys. So here comes Diego!! He was created to put off the same image and imaginative character that Dora puts off but for the males. Although he is okay and a well known figure, he no where near tops Dora. I also love the Backyardigans; I think that cartoon shows a lot of diversity. Look at the names of the children, Unique, Tyron, Pablo. Children probably cant relate but I certainly can see they are all from different ethnic backgrounds, and this teaches children to listen and understand different names and cultures at an early age. And I also think Abby was a great addition to Sesame, the children love her, and your right what used to be a all males role in sesame is now open to females. We visit Sesame on the regular and its interesting to watch the characters in the parade they have daily. The female characters really take on a more feminine role by allowing the males to open the doors for them etc. teaching the children at an early age about gendered responsibilities etc. I will say cartoons have changed from when I was a child, although we had barbie and Gi Joe, children today have a whole new world of cartoons, characters and messages.

response to Rachel wk 4

Rachel I must say I agree with your post and you point out some very important points. The love that people share for one another will allow that child to be raised in a stable environment. Gay or straight, single or married, blind or deaf if one is able to love that child and provide what they need I dont think it should matter at all. I am married and I have a beautiful son, and I am expecting another child. Does my marital status make me the "ideal parent"? No it does not because just as Rachel pointed out this could chage with the blink of an eye.
June 6, 2008 8:54:00 AM PDT

Wk 4

First I must commend you for adopting your daughter. So many children are passed over and fall victim to what I believe is a broken system for many reasons including gender issues which we are exploring here. However there are other issues that agencies choose to use to reject clients. I personally do not think its fair for adoption agencies to tell single parents or gay couples they are not worthy of adopting a child. They might really have a lot to offer children however are not even considered because of their marital status and/or sexual preferences. Just think about the single parent aspect; what if someone was so wrapped up their career that they didn’t make time for a relationship or had so many failed ones that they just stopped trying. But then they became established in their life and wanted to have a child. Yet they still have no partner; does this mean they are unfit to be a parent? No, I wouldn’t think they are. I just think it would be a different perspective for the child with just one parent. And as long as the parent balances that child’s life out I don’t see what the big deal would be. I do agree that how much you love, and nurture a child is what is important. One’s sexual preference has nothing to do with anything. As long as a person is responsible and has something to offer that child that would be worth while nothing else should matter.
June 6, 2008 8:40:00 AM PDT

Response to Rachel wk 5

Very interesting Rachel, is it because we are dealing with our own insecurities? We live in a world where our confidence is predicted on how someone else see's us. We fail to be our own advocates and let the views of others and the media control who we really are. I agree with the flaming issue, we live in a world where it seems that people get enjoyment out of laughing at those that are sexually oriented different then what they accept and enjoy. I feel like if its not hurting you then why do you care what people do in their own private time or space. And just as quoted below, the future is open!! No matter what or who you are respect is key and should be given and received at all times.

Response to Dori wk 5

Dori I am glad to hear your brother is first of all well, but more so that he found the strength he needed in the mens group. So many men need that constant Brotherly support to get them through ruff times as well as good times. To guide them to examples of what it is to be a man, a brother a father etc. I am glad to hear things worked out for him and pray that they continue to, and hopefully some other man will see his success and follow in his footsteps.