Description of technique for limiting kids' TV-time:
I belong to a group started in Italy the same day the McDonalds opened in Rome. It's called Slow Food. The purpose is to preserve traditional ways of preparing and savoring food. My children, who are now in their 20's, have fond memories of times we spent when they were young, preparing a meal together. Starting with shopping at the Farmer's Market early in the morning, to skinning the tomatoes for a classic tomato sauce, to growing fresh herbs in our garden to - the final glory - a fabulous food we shared with our family and friends. In this world of fast food, processed food, and little time with our children, I always found this time to be precious - while we cooked, we talked. We talked about everything. It's still a family favorite activity.

Appropriate age group(s):
pre-school to adult

Other suggestions or comments:
Watch quality programs on videotape. Instead of feeling tied to poor programming choices on TV, make selections based on your own thoughtfulness.