OKLAHOMA CITY -- Oklahoma first lady Kim Henry is encouraging
families statewide to participate in "TV Turnoff Week" April 24-30.
Flanked at a press conference by children who took a pledge to
watch no television during the week, Henry said Oklahoma will
participate in the event, which is being observed internationally.
Children watch too much television, which stifles their creativity and imagination, Henry said.
It also allows children to absorb too much violence and encourages
a sedentary lifestyle among an age group with a growing obesity
problem, she said.
The average American family has a television on for eight hours a
day, Henry said. The average American views four hours of television a
day, she said.
"Technology is great at enhancing life, but it should not be replacing it," Henry said.
State Superintendent Sandy Garrett, who also was part of Monday's
announcement, said alternatives to television include going to museums
or visiting a local library.
Garrett has written all school superintendents and principals in
Oklahoma to encourage them to plan activities or lessons in conjunction
with "TV Turnoff Week."
Robert Kesten, executive director of the TV Turnoff Network,
said the more time children spend in front of a screen, the less likely
they are as adults to vote, volunteer or spend time with their
families.
Barbara Hoberock (405) 528-2465
barbara.hoberock@tulsaworld.com
