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Television Is Not Good for Toddlers According to the American Academy of Pediatrics

Last Updated: September 14, 2009

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Parenting Tips for Your 13-14 Month Old Toddler

Television is not a good babysitter. Most young children could be doing other things at this age. Watching television does not give your child the exercise he needs. It does not give him a chance to explore or to play. Unless you’re watching television too, it’s also lonely.

Some parents try to have their children watch television to keep them quiet. If you need some time for yourself, or need time to talk on the phone, put your child next to you with some toys. Too much TV can keep children from playing and making friends.

The television makes it hard for your little one to talk to you and hear you. This can delay the very important development of language skills. Do your toddler a favor and turn off the television. Experts agree that it is not good for children under 2 years old to be watching any television at all.


Learn more about Your Toddler: 13-14 Months from Just In Time Parenting. You can also go to our Resource Links for additional information on child care and development.


Note to Parents: When reading this newsletter, remember: Every baby is different. Children may do things earlier or later than described here. This newsletter gives equal space and time to both sexes. If he or she is used, we are talking about all babies.
References: These materials were adapted by authors from Extension Just in Time Parenting Newsletters in California, Delaware, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Tennessee, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Mexico, and Wisconsin.

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