The Salt Lake Tribune
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Turn off that TV
Most people think that I have some pretty extreme opinions on frugality. For example, I believe that if you can't pay cash for a vehicle, you can't truly afford it. (That's why I'm still driving my reliable old Toyota that has been driven more than 150,000 miles.) I believe people have no business buying things like big-screen televisions, furniture and electronics on credit cards at 18 percent interest. I believe families should scrimp and save until they have six to eight months of living expenses socked away for emergencies. 
For years, many people thought I was off my rocker. Now amid the nation's economic crisis, many people are more tolerant of these views.
Expect for one area — my views on television.
While my husband and I watch a little television now and then, my children don't watch TV. We do allow them to watch movies now and then, or something child-oriented on a DVD. But no TV. 
Why? First, I want them to learn that there's so many other things they could be doing than sitting in front of the tube. And second, I believe TV indoctrinates children early to want the next big toy, the newest sugary cereal or the latest in fashion. Before they start watching TV, I want them to learn how commercials work, what really counts in life and that a new zippy car or the latest electronics gadget isn't really what is going to make them happy. (Even though all the people in commercials sure look happy.)
What else do they do with their time? They play with building toys, read, do art projects or play board games. (Thrift shops are an excellent source of educational toys and books.) They play outside. As a family, we hike and we letterbox.
I'm sure someday, when they're older, they are going to want to watch TV. And that's fine with me. But it's my hope that by keeping the TV off for most of their childhood, they will have learned there's a heck of a lot more interesting things they could be doing with their time.
For another perspective, read the "Frugal Dad's 12 Reasons To Turn off the TV."
posted by Lesley Mitchell @ 4:31 PM |

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About Lesley
   Lesley Mitchell has been a business reporter at The Tribune since 1997, covering real estate, the retail industry, personal finance and economic development. She's been a devotee of frugal living for more than three decades, starting when she was 8 and began washing cars (rain insurance anyone?) as a way to fund her goal of early retirement. A graduate of Utah State University's MBA program, Lesley, and her family, are dedicated to finding creative ways to save money, avoid debt and still have fun.
Feedback
   How do you and your family save money? Send an e-mail to lesley@sltrib.com.