The babysitting TV

I remember, when i had my first child, so many women raved about not letting the TV become a babysitter for my daughter. They all said how my poor kids would become "brain dead" and lose their social skills. 


For some reason opinions, of moms that is, has seemed to change recently. All the doctors and child developmental specialist on TV and through books keep saying that too much TV is bad and limit kids to what seems like and almost unrealistic amount of TV a week. I've seemed to notice, however, that many moms find their kids favorite television shows as some what of a life saver. 


While some moms are being good and making their kids do puzzles, read books, or play outside other moms are giving in to the pressure and turning on Micky Mouse Club House. If your like me, it's become one of the only times during the day that you can think and it' become addictive. So, while the kids aren't being annoying or bad and while I'm not needing a break or a moment to think, I've become addicted to the peace, solitude and moment to breath that playing their favorite programs has afforded me. I know that it may seem "horrid" to some of the women out there that made it through motherhood with out 'on demand'. 

I have tried to find a balance between my addiction, their want and what is good for us all. Let me just be honest. There are times when I know I should pick up a book and read to my kids, there are times when I know I should put down my iPhone and play with my kids and there are times when I know I should turn off the TV and get creative with my kids but I lack the energy and motivation to do so. It doesn't last long though. After a few days of Barney and Cars2, a feeling of guilt overwhelms me. I engage with my children and play with them to the point where they begin to get sick of me. They begin to go off and play together with out Mommy. Then I enjoy the solitude and my addiction starts all over again. 


So, I've made it my goal to be balanced. I know that not every day will turn out as I hope but that will not keep me from trying to improve. Every mom can learn from another mom, or even mom-to-be. I take what I see from friends and family and use it to help improve the lives of my children, in turn, improving my life as well. I don't know it all and I am will to learn. I'll take advice and criticize it in a heart beat, not because I think it's bad but because i want the theory and knowledge behind it to be fully understood. 


Here starts the end of giving in, and here starts the beginning of being strong and knowing that I Can handle what is at my feet.