The Programming of TV

Do You Know The Programming of TV?

If you consider that 1 million homes in the United States had television sets in 1948 you could say that television has been around for about 3 generations. Way back then there was no TiVO or even VCRs. If you wanted to watch a show, you had to turn your TV on about 10 minutes before so it could “warm up” and then your TV could show the image you wanted to see.

On top of there not being a way to record your shows, there was limited channels and remote controls did not exist yet. Oh the horrors of having to get up off of the couch to change the channel! If you were indecisive, you really got a workout.

TV time was generally set aside as family time. It was a production to watch a show. Since most families only had one television, only one show at a time could be seen. Here is where the early programming came in to play. If you interrupted the show or made a comment that caused other members of your family to miss the punchline, you were hushed and their frustration was definitely felt. Why? Because nobody could go back and find out what was said. You had to wait and see if you were lucky enough to catch a rerun of that show.

That same training has stuck with us. We tend to tip toe in the room where a TV is being watched even though the show can be recorded and watched later.

Now think about how this contrasts with portable, handy books. There was never really a way to not mark your spot in a book. You could always pick up where you left off, and it was always easy to reread something you didn’t understand. As you may guess, our training with books has been totally different. I’ve never experienced a room, except the library or a school, where everyone was quiet if someone was reading.

Try a little test. Pick up a great book and see how people act towards you while you are reading as opposed to watching television.

Benefits of Reading…

Provides relaxation and escape.

Gives a neverending supply of information.

Can give you information to make the best decision for your situation.

Allows numerous topics for conversations.

Builds spelling skills, vocabulary and comprehension skills.

Takes you to places you’ve never been.

Expands your horizons.

Quite enjoyable, too!