Faith-Filled TV Viewing:  Ideas For Teachers and Parents

When TV first began to be children’s favorite activity in the 60’s to the 80’s (it now vies with computer and computer games), it was deemed the enemy of intelligence, creativity, and morality. As time went by, however, educators and parents learned to harness the wonders TV had to offer (including information, inspiration, and challenges) and minimize the harm (laugh tracks that manipulate our funny bones, misinformation, dummied-down everything, unrealistic depictions of families, dating, and success.). Whether in the Sunday School classroom or at home, you can ask questions to connect television to children’s faith.

Try these questions to stimulate discussion. If the characters and shows your students mention are unfamiliar to you, consider it your homework to watch these shows and learn more about what they watch, like, don’t like, and relate to.

1. What’s your favorite TV show and why?

2. Who is a character on a TV show you would most like to be like and why?

3. Who is a character on a TV show you would most not want to be like and why?

4. Are there any TV shows that you think a Christian should not watch? If so, which ones?

5. Which family on a TV show is most like your family? Explain.

6. How much time do you think is appropriate for a person your age to watch television each day? Explain.

7. Do you think watching TV can be harmful or helpful to your faith in God? Explain.