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TV for Down Syndrome Tweens

A Case for Parental Control

Jul 18, 2006 Lynn Moore

TV or DVDs are often used for entertainment for tweens with special needs. Parental control takes on new meaning with this population.

My other articles on special needs tweens:

Special Ed Tweens and Time

Does Your Tween Say No?

Does your tween love to watch the same DVD over and over - all day if you let him? Is watching TV the activity preferred over all others? What kinds of parental controls are advocated for tweens with disabilities?

Amount of Time

Decide a reasonable amount of TV / DVD time.
Consider other things which should occur during the day: chores, self-care, outside activities, exercise, socialization, and other kinds of inside fun.
Consider the rest of the family. Everyone should have some TV time.

Particular Times Throughout the Day

Prioritize the activities listed above.
Establish TV / DVD times that are breaks in the day or rewards for jobs done.
Consider the over all family schedule when setting up TV times: meals, school, bedtimes, etc.

Appropriate Programming

Tweens still need parental guidance on what to watch.

Establish age appropriate guidelines. Special needs tweens need to know what is and is not okay to watch.
Establish developmentally appropriate guidelines. If your tween loves to sing the alphabet, choose a program that is "oldest" in its characters.

Make the Most of Family Time

Watching a favorite DVD with your developmentally delayed tween can be a great bonding time.

Make it a date! Put it on your calendar!
Plan special snacks to have.
Make sure other responsibilities are finished in plenty of time.
Avoid unnecessary interruptions. Do not take phone calls (unless an emergency) during this special time.
Include other family members in this activity. A movie night can be as rewarding as a game night if it is a special activity and not something that happens all day, everyday.

We sometimes think of TV or DVDs as the electronic babysitters. With a little planning, it can be a positive break in the day.

The copyright of the article TV for Down Syndrome Tweens in Special Needs Parenting is owned by Lynn Moore. Permission to republish TV for Down Syndrome Tweens in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.