Our homes, schools and immediate environment are media rich.

Statistics indicate that young children (ages 0 to 6 years) live in homes with access to at least three television sets, radio, VCR/DVD, CD/tape player, cable or satellite service, and/or a computer with Internet access.

Some of our young ones may even have a stereo, TV, and/or VCR/DVD player in their bedroom.

Young children (ages 0 to 3 years) have turned on the TV by themselves, asked for a particular TV show or channel, and/or changed channels with the remote control. By age 4, some children know how to operate a video/ DVD player, computer and video games all by themselves.

The undeniable truth is that our children, from the earliest ages, are immersed in and actively using increasingly diverse media.

Given that children develop so dramatically in the early years, there is valid concern of the effects that this level of media exposure can have on their vulnerable minds.

Research shows that, depending on a variety of factors such as the content of the media program, the length of exposure, and the context for its viewing, media exposure and use can have positive and negative effects on individuals’ learning, behavior, and health.

While leading researchers admit they are just beginning to understand the full extent and nature of the issue emerging research strongly suggests that—when used appropriately—media can benefit our children.

Flow recognizes the importance of protecting our children from over-exposure to the mass media elements by finding the balance that is necessary for healthy development.

‘Flow Get Media Smart’ is an ongoing initiative geared to help educate parents, guardians and caretakers on how to strike that healthy balance; how to effectively use and control the various media to benefit the development of our young ones…..to help you ‘Get Media Smart’.