All television teaches young children something. But it is important to ask: What is it your child is learning and what do you want them to learn? Smart TV is grounded in the social, emotional and cognitive development skills of its young viewers. PBS works with experienced television producers who involve children, parents, educators, daycare providers, researchers and experts from a variety of fields in the design and production process. Each show on PBS has a curriculum—a list of things to learn—that can help kids succeed in school and in life. If possible, record the programs that you think are most appropriate for your child and show them when the time is right for your child's viewing.

When is television a Positive Learning Tool?

	It encourages creativity and critical thinking.

	It is developmentally appropriate—a good match between children's growing needs and the subject matter.

	It introduces children to skills and ideas they need to learn.

	It models ways to solve problems without using force or violence.

	It shows people getting along with one another and showing respect.

	It engages children to sing along, answer questions, dance and join the fun.

	It helps to teach the values that are important to parents and caregivers.

	It helps children feel good about their own and other cultures, family routines and communities.

	It inspires children to want to learn and read more.

When is television a problem?

	It occupies too much of a child's time.

	It is not created for a young audience.

	It teaches children ideas, words and behaviors that are inappropriate.

	It exposes children to violence as a means of problem solving.

	It teaches values that must be “untaught” by parents and providers.

	It presents age, gender, racial or cultural stereotypes.

	It encourages children to think their parents need to buy them products.