My son is in Grade 4. He used to perform well in school before he got addicted to watching television. Whenever he returns from school, the first thing he does is switch on the television. I have tried to stop him in vain. Please advise me on what to do.

 Ingabire

Dear Ingabire,

Good education is the best life insurance anyone can offer to their children. However, it comes along with a number of challenges and teaching your child how to read is one of them.

Watching TV should not be underestimated because it teaches the child more vocabulary and deepens their general knowledge. However, this should be done in line with the agreed upon time table. If it’s time for reading, then watching TV should be put aside. 

One of the most effective ways to motivate your kid to love books is by reading with them. You should endeavour to make it enjoyable for the child by finding material and topics that are interesting. In the process, when your child is in a good mood, you can introduce even the complex topics.

Also ask teachers about your child’s performance and level of concentration in class. They will be able to advise about your child’s strengths and weaknesses.

Furthermore, find some past papers and make a revision plan with your child and stick to it. Ensure the homework is done promptly.

Avoid conveying any anxiety you have to your child. Make sure the child eats plenty of nutritious meals and drinks, sleeps well and gets lots of fresh air, exercise and time to relax and play. Don’t over criticise him for his mistakes. If he is upset or worried, reassure him that he has done his best.

Your views

Alex Dushimimana       

Ban your son from watching television during the week and insist that he reads. Since he won’t have many other options, to spend his time, he will be forced to read. Although this may sound too radical, I think it is the best way to handle him.

Aliette Ishimwe             

It’s not easy to stop an addiction but a few things can be done to reverse that desire. Buy  him a lot of  educational material such as books and movies. This will eventually transform him.

Jean De Dieu Niyigaba       

The best way to help such a child is by working hand-in-hand with the school authorities so that they give him extra homework. This will mean that he has less time to spend watching television.

Rahab Nzayihimbaza          

Cut down on the number of hours your child spends on television. Make sure your son gets more time for his books and hope that his grades also improve. If he excels, that in itself will be the biggest motivation.