Cartoons can have a variety of effects on a child, and this effect depends on many factors, including his age, the type of cartoon, the time spent watching it, and the quality of family relationships.
Psychologist Yuliana Sultanova told how cartoons influence a child.
For example, research has shown that cartoons can be useful for developing language and teaching social norms and values.
They can also help children learn about the cultures of different countries and broaden their horizons. In this way, children begin to get used to the fact that all cartoon characters are different, but this does not prevent them from making friends and communicating.
Watching educational programs develops the thinking of children, because having seen one situation, children in similar conditions can try to repeat the actions of the characters.
However, stop watching TV if your child is under 2. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, it is better to interact with this age group by directly providing them with real-life experiences and stimulating their physical activity, communication, and emotional intelligence.
Some articles link the rise in violence and aggression to watching cartoons.
Modern animated series may contain violent plots that encourage aggressive behavior and reduce the level of social responsibility in children.
This is indeed possible and even watching violent scenes is dangerous due to the emergence of nightmares, fears and anxiety in such a fragile child’s psyche.
Cartoons can also influence a child's diet. Some studies have shown that advertising in cartoons can lead to children preferring unhealthy foods.
In general, the influence of cartoons on a child depends on what cartoons he watches, how much time he spends watching TV, and how well parents process the information they receive with their child, discussing it and understanding the values put in by scriptwriters and directors.
One of the most important factors that parents can control is the choice of cartoons. It is recommended to choose videos that develop the child and correspond to his age and interests.
Additionally, parents can also limit the amount of time their child spends watching television and regularly discuss what they are watching, asking questions to make sure the child understands the content.
But, as always, any information should be assessed carefully and be appropriate to the age, characteristics and needs of a particular child.
