Television viewing has been linked to the increasing problem of obesity in young children, as well as to the development of inappropriate eating behaviours, yet the mechanism behind this link remains unclear. This study investigated the messages about food and eating that appear in a sample of preschool children's television shows and found that…

It has often been proposed that young (three to six years old) children's television viewing habits contribute to early-onset obesity. Three explanations that link television viewing patterns of young children with the development of obesity are considered. First, television viewing displaces time available for physical activity, reduces energy…

Describes the way in which a community group in New South Wales, Australia, provided a link between local community and regional television industry personnel in an effort to resolve issues relating to children and television. Lists activities of the group, and assesses its impact over a 10-year period. (RJC)

"Lift Off" is a new, innovative children's television series produced by the Australian Children's Television Foundation that has been well received by young children, parents, critics, and educators. One typical half-hour program is profiled. Questions the claims that "Lift Off" will enrich the lives of a whole age cohort,…

The challenge for the educational advisor to Australian television show "Play School" is to make theory and philosophy of early childhood education accessible, relevant, and clearly articulated during production process. Advisor must attend to the selection of setting, staging, materials, and camera shots; the use of language; and the…