Top 10 tips for detoxing childhood

Aug 17 2006 By The Journal

1 Eat as a family as often as possible - and switch off the TV.

2 Keep your child active and get together with other parents to ensure plenty of opportunities for outdoor play.

3 Establish and keep to a restful bedtime routine, with no electronic distractions.

4 Make time to share everyday experiences when you can talk and listen to your child.

5 Having a great home life means presence not presents.

6 Accept that good childcare is expensive, either in time or money. If you can't be there, get the best possible care.

7 Support your child in every way at school but avoid competitiveness - childhood is not a race.

8 Do everything possible to protect your child from aggressive marketing, celebrity culture and poor role models.

9 Keep a close eye on what your child is watching. Make sure TVs and computers are all in family space.

10 At home aim for authoritative parenting - a balance of warmth and firmness. Outside the home, work to build an authoritative community in your neighbourhood.