Set Free Childhood

Parents' survival guide to coping with computers and TV

Martin Large

Children watch TV and use computers for five hours daily on average. But electronic media demands conflict with the needs of children. The result? Record levels of learning difficulties, obesity, eating disorders, sleep problems, language delay, aggressive behaviour, anxiety - and children on fast forward.

However, Set Free Childhood shows you how to counter screen culture and create a calmer, more enjoyable family life with:

  • Striking research on how the TV "tunes out" the brain and affects child growth;
  • Why doctors and educators say "the later the better" for electronic media use;
  • Successful media coping strategies for families to prevent electronic addiction;
  • Countering pester power by making childhood a commercial-free zone.

Set Free Childhood

240pp; 216 x 138mm
1 903458 43 9
paperback; £10.99
published in March 2003

Published in association with the Alliance for Childhood

Alliance for Childhood logo

"I was struck by the research on how we go into 'sleep mode' when we watch TV. I want my child to be alert, creative and interested!"

Helen Royall, parent, author "Celebrating the Celtic Year"

'Devil in the box', Western Daily Press, 1 July 2003

Article in 'The Mother Magazine' Spring 2003

"Martin Large set out to give parents information about the influence of screen culture so that they can make informed choices, and his findings make compelling, if horrifying, reading. His practical suggestions, however, empower readers to take charge of their children's upbringing and make it essential reading for all parents."

Review in FIVE TO ELEVEN, Aug/Sept 2003

"As a worst-case scenario, screen culture can turn a family home into a boarding house - people microwaving their separate meals and taking them off to their rooms to watch TV alone. Everyday communication breaks down...."

Article in FIVE TO ELEVEN, Aug/Sept 2003

"Set Free Childhood makes a significant, if controversial, contribution to the debate surrounding the impact of TV and other electronic media on children's health and well being...."

Review in 'The Beating Drum' (South Africa)

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