Our parent oriented Articles address media issues that can impact kids and a healthy family environment.

4th of July - Independence Day Movies for the Whole Family »

Are you looking for a way to help your children feel more patriotic this Fourth of July? Well you might want to start by reminding them of the words of poet Emma Lazarus, which are found on a bronze plaque at the base of the Statue… read more »

Father’s Day Films »

If you looking for some movies to share with Dad this Father’s Day, here are some of our favorites:

Welcome to the New Parent Previews »

Last September the three of us agreed it was time to give Parent Previews a whole new look. Our current site (the one you saw prior to this one) was built on code written by over a half-dozen people over the course of just as many years. Needless to say it was a patchwork quilt of different approaches.

Mitch Albom’s “For One More Day” »

With slim pickings on television lately, the premiere of a new movie based on the book For One More Day by Mitch Albom may be the refreshing break you have been yearning for. I took a look at a pre-broadcast screening and feel this is a film that is definitely a cut above typical TV offerings. Please continue reading for a full review.

Making “News” In Your Classroom »

Teaching students to become critical consumers of news media has always been important, but even more so today with the sound of war looming. Not only is this prospect frightening for many young people, they (along with many adults!) also don’t have the tools required to discover the complete details.

What Parents Need to Know TVs in Children’s Bedrooms »

Is bedside television a normal part of your children’s lives? If so, you will no doubt be interested in what two recent studies have revealed about young children watching TV.

Science Debunks the Movies »

Adam Weiner has found an innovative way to challenge his science students to think differently about the media they watch—he uses movies to demonstrate how impossible most of the stunts and scenarios we see in entertainment are.

Branding Isn’t Just for Cattle »

If you’ve been branded, say "Mooooooo!"

At least that’s what cows do when they are marked to show who possesses them.

Teens Talking Drugs—Do You Understand? »

A couple of moths ago, Nielsen BuzzMetrics (the same "Nielsen" that tracks television viewers) released information from a study commissioned by Caron Treatment Centers that looked at what teens were discussing during the hours they spend posting messages on websites. The final document [link: ]http://www.caron.org/content.asp?section=press&cat=pressrelease&PR=478]… read more »

Not Just American Parents Are Heated Up Over Profanities »

Al Gore had his weekend in the sun after organizing concerts in various countries with the goal of making the world aware of global warming. (I can’t help but wonder how anyone on this planet with a television hasn’t already heard about this issue?) However, after this weekend’s Live Earth broadcast in Britain, viewers were feeling… read more »

Changes in Movie Ratings—Yet Again »

In January I wrote about new MPAA head Dan Glickman’s encouraging remarks to filmmakers to create more NC-17 movies and have them playing at suburban theaters. [http://www.parentstv.org/PTC/publications/rgcolumns/2007/0125.asp] But over the past few months—and especially the last two weeks—I’m seeing other changes that I haven’t… read more »

Kellogg Makes A Sweet Change »

Known for flagship brands like Sugar Frosted Flakes (yes, "theeeeeeey’re Great!"), the company says it will no longer promote foods in the media to audiences in which the majority of viewers are under 12 unless the specific products meet a wide range of new standards. These include caps on the number calories, amount of sugar and… read more »

What Is Your Child Packing On Their Phone? »

A couple of weeks ago my son, who is in his freshman year, came home with a troubled look on his face. "Can I talk to you about something?" he asked.

Graphic Help For Reluctant Readers »

Ever heard of graphic novels? If you’re thinking of 400 page pocket books with embossed covers of buxom maidens, you’ve got the wrong idea. I’m talking about a different kind of graphic!

The Church and Media: Common Concerns »

For The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the effects of media on the family are front-page news. In their September 2004 issue of The Ensign, the official publication of this U.S. based sect, their president, Gordon B. Hinckley, opens his prominently placed Page 3 column by stating his… read more »

Understanding the Risks of Wireless Internet in your Home »

Over the past few years, one particular technology has quickly moved into homes at an amazingly rapid pace. Wireless Internet routers—a small box that can easily distribute your home Internet service anywhere in the house—have become a common addition to any Internet savvy family.

Some Secrets Hollywood Shouldn’t Keep »

Usually, the great entertainment machine is unable to keep a secret about anything – especially if it has to do with someone’s sexual morals.
read more »

Give Your Kids a Chance to Create! »

I spend a great deal of time writing about the problems of media. Study after study linking the affects of violence, quantity of television, and violent sexual content of popular music with real life behaviors have been reported through my keyboard.

The “Vast Wasteland” Continues »

A few days ago I presented a keynote address for an educational group that specializes in media and its affects on children. I assumed many in the room would be familiar with what is often referred to as the "Vast Wasteland" speech given by Newton N. Minow, President Kennedy’s newly appointed chairman of the FCC, to the National Association… read more »

The Latest Skinny on Body Images »

Helping your children maintain a healthy diet is always tricky, especially considering the multitude of media advice and subtle messages both you and your kids are exposed to. Turn on a morning show one day, and you’ll see a guest talking about fighting teenage obesity. Flip the channel and you’ll likely find another person who is just… read more »

Changes in Movie Ratings Part 1—Why Independent Producers Want Change »

With the recent media coverage regarding television ratings, few have taken notice of the other major media rating system that is being modified. The Motion Picture Association of America’s (MPAA) movie rating system is about to be affected by subtle changes that I feel could spell big differences in the types of movies you find at your local… read more »

Changes in Movie Ratings Part 2—More NC-17 Movies Coming to a Theater Near You »

For years, independent producers (and foreign filmmakers) have claimed their movies receive stricter ratings than movies coming from the big six studios that contain similar content. One filmmaker who decided to make a strong statement about this inequality is Kirby Dick. His recent documentary, This Film Is Not Yet Rated, made its debut appearance… read more »

TV Violence—When Push Comes to Shoot… »

By now I’m sure you, the thousands of parents who come to the Parents Television Council website, have read the report or at least the summary on the dramatic increase in television violence. And I’m sure you’re not surprised. But before you think there’s nothing you can do to turn this tide of events, perhaps take a few minutes… read more »

R.I.P. for the Chip? »

Heralded by many as a parent’s solution to controlling television content, the V-chip was described as "ineffective" by FCC officials in early December 2006. While others have criticized the device’s lack of use by the very people it was built to serve, having the chief regulatory body over broadcasting deem it a failure may… read more »

Video Games - A Quick Guide to the Latest Systems »

Video games are always a hot commodity at Christmas, and this year it seems the manufacturers have whipped up an unprecedented frenzy. As I’ve spoken with parents, I detect they are more confused than ever about what systems are most suitable for their family, and which will hold the greatest chance of giving them the best virtual bang for… read more »

Video Games—A Few Fast Picks »

When people complain that they have a difficult time finding movies or television programs suitable for their kids, I usually respond, "Wait ‘till you look for a video game!"

Why TV and Dinner Should Be Forever Separate »

Parents are always searching for "cures" for our kids, aren’t we? A cure for bad grades, bad friends, or perhaps even more serious issues like involvement in drugs.

Cocaine: Snort It, Guzzle It, Promote It »

Use of illegal and "recreational" drugs is truly becoming an epidemic that has reached crisis proportions. We’ve spent millions of tax dollars attempting to educate North American societies about the consequences of using these substances, and then in a moment, all of that proactive training is undone by a celebrity’s thoughtless… read more »

Phil Vischer—Moving Into “Mid-Life” »

The "Father of VeggieTales" filled us in on his beginnings and why he chose to start creating animated singing and dancing vegetables in a conversation started in the first half of this column. (Missed it? Then have a click and get filled in… [http://www.parentstv.org/PTC/ publications/rgcolumns/2006/1019.asp])

Phil Vischer—The Father of VeggieTales »

Many of us have had a "bad day" at work. But imagine working for yourself for over a decade, building up an internationally recognized product, and then losing it over some legal issues that are later deemed to not be your fault. I don’t know about you, but by that point I’d be bitter, twisted and ready to give up.

Food for Thought—Eating and Television »

Thankfully the TV dinner is disappearing—at least in the area of the world where I live. I have mixed memories about sitting with the little tin foil tray balanced on my knee while watching The Beverly Hillbillies. I say mixed because it was fun being entertained during dinner, however the food left something to be desired. Cardboard… read more »

Jackass: The Movie? Or the MPAA? »

Please forgive the questionable title on this column, but it certainly is a question that begs to be answered after checking out the content in Jackass: Number Two, a "movie" (better described as an obscene circus act) that has left many—including hardened liberals—wondering just what does the MPAA consider NC-17 content?

Spinach and Media—Deadly? »

Last week saw the unfolding of two apparently unrelated tragedies. First we learned of toxic spinach that had been tainted by E. coli. It appears that somewhere, somehow, the animal fertilizer used to help spinach grow had come in contact with the leaves and made its way into the product’s packaging.

Races Divided For Fall »

Considering the efforts being put forth by public schools and other thoughtful groups to encourage children to overlook racial prejudices and visible differences, our media moguls are persisting on offering reminders as to why we should continue judging people based on their skin color.

We Should Remember Steve Irwin’s Life—Not His Death »

For many adults and children, the news of Steve Irwin’s death (best known as The Crocodile Hunter) was a shocking reminder that no matter how famous we are, we can’t cheat what will be the inevitable ending to all of our mortal lives.

Parents Are More Concerned about Media Than Peers »

We’ve long ago heard the old adage about the importance of picking good friends, but it seems most parents are far more concerned about picking good media, according to a recent study completed by a Brigham Young University professor.

Is the MPAA Giving In on CLERKS 2? »

A friend of mine who has been reviewing movies from a traditional artistic viewpoint for decades pulled me aside at a screening a couple of weeks ago.

A Serving of Research Leftovers »

In the process of looking for new topics about media and how it affects families, I often come across little tidbits of information that aren’t quite enough to fill up a complete page, but are still interesting for parents to know about. So this week, I’m serving up some "leftover" European research about television viewing… read more »

Why the End of Edited Movies is a Good Thing »

I know this will be a controversial stand to take with my audience, but this week’s judgment by U.S. District Court judge Richard P. Matsch, who declared businesses that edit nasty bits out of Hollywood movies are "illegitimate," is actually a good thing for not only the movie industry, but for the future of family entertainment as… read more »

Is MySpace the Right Space for Your Children II? »

Carol (not her real name), a twenty something single mom, received a very personal revelation of how the popular social network service MySpace.com is being perceived by the media and those who are not part of the site’s fan club.

Is MySpace the Right Space for Your Children? »

It was only three short years ago that MySpace.com began its new life as a "social network service"—the technical term for a website where people can create their own web pages and post virtually anything about themselves and—with obvious legal ramifications—others.

Balancing Media and Family in Maryland »

A few weeks ago I received a letter from a reader of this column. Here is a portion of that correspondence:

Cinemanow or Cinema-no »

In the same way upstart Napster forced music companies to begin taking a hard look at legally offering their artists’ works online, movie pirates are forcing the hands of major studios to consider the same plan.

Webcams: Who’s Watching Whom? »

The "future" is often defined by our technology. Only a few decades ago, I remember reading about "picture phones" that would allow us to see the person we were speaking with. Now, with the help of the Internet and computers, that vision is reality… although the craze hasn’t caught on to the point where every phone… read more »

“Activate” Your Children »

I spend a great deal of time telling you how to watch better television, play "nice" video games, and decipher media messages. But with summer around the corner there comes a time when you need to help the kids "unplug" and find some new engaging activities—at least until it rains.

Is that Email for Real? »

I often write articles informing parents about things that could affect their children, but this week, it seems appropriate to tell both parents and kids to listen up.

Want to See a Movie? Parents May Want to Wait a Week »

At the risk of sounding like a complaining film critic, this year Hollywood is changing the rules of the game, and it may ultimately affect consumers—particularly parents—more than critics.

The Technology Crystal Ball »

If you’re a parent of children today, chances are a decade ago you were still "without children" or perhaps had a young toddler. And, as you watch your offspring get taller, louder, and develop an ever-increasing ravenous appetite, you may be wondering where the past ten years went.

Unrated Movies Further Erode MPAA System »

There is so much attention given to media rating systems lately that many may be led to believe that no mainstream movies are being released to DVD without some sort of rating stamped on the cover. However, a growing trend on store shelves shows yet another indication that the real creative geniuses are not sitting in the writers’ or directors’… read more »

Don’t Be Fooled by Hip-Hop’s Newest Dance »

Many parents haven’t got a clue about Lil’ Kim, Lil’ Romeo, B2K, or the various other artists sitting in the CD stores’ Hip-Hop bins. Even so, it’s likely they have a bad impression of this genre anyway… regardless of their kids’ wishes that they’d give it a second listen. While I am no expert… read more »

From Family to Pornographic: The Spectrum of Anime »

You may have heard the term "anime" (pronounced ANN-ih-may or AH-nee-may) batted around in your family. If so, you may already be the owner of a growing collection of DVDs with colorful covers of big-eyed childlike adults saving the world.

Product Integration: The Elusive Art of Buying Audiences »

If you watched last year’s season of The Contender—a boxing reality TV series where prize fighters get a chance to punch in the big ring at Caesar’s Palace for one million dollars—do you know what happened an average of 500 times per episode?

Pulling Young People Into The Matrix »

I’m often asked to present media sessions in schools. I’m amazed how frequently arms shoot up in an elementary classroom and “The Matrix!” is exclaimed in response to “What’s your favorite movie?”

Movie Ratings: Not Suitable for Adults »

Often critics and other film industry types lament and whine over why a movie received an R-rating when it deserved a PG-13. This nonsensical demonstration of supposed artistic rights doesn’t win much sympathy from my mouth for one simple reason – these vocal opponents have long forgotten the true purpose of the movie rating system.

Falling on Deaf Ears »

If you ride mass transit, you may have had the experience of sharing the music from another passenger’s personal stereo. Recently, I could clearly understand the obnoxious lyrics of a teenaged girl’s music, even though she was sitting many seats away from me.

Grandmother Leads Fight Against Porn »

You’ve been through the tragedy of having your husband die from cancer, leaving you with eight children, the youngest only two-years-old. Later you find the right man to marry, and your children meet his thirteen to bring the total to twenty-one. Over the years, you accept another sixteen young people – with their own distinct challenges… read more »

With Enough Time The Truth About TV Violence Becomes Clear »

Your nine-year-old is complaining once again because he has the only parent in the world that won’t let him watch violent television programs. And you find yourself wondering once again if you’re just too picky.

V-chip for Video Games »

If you’ve done your homework, and have enabled your "shields," your TV’s V-chip should be helping you manage what your children watch and your DVD players should have their content rating features activated. But what about your video game system? You may have decided your kids won’t be playing any M or AO rated games,… read more »

Oscars Cold Shoulder to Families »

A recent article in the entertainment industry trade magazine Variety talks about the great amount of money the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences and ABC Television are spending to convince masses of people the upcoming Oscar telecast is worth watching. They are especially concerned after news broke that far more Americans were… read more »

Cuts in Panther Lead to Box Office Success »

After screening the latest Pink Panther film a couple of weeks ago, I couldn’t help but be surprised at the lack of objectionable content. There are some mild sexual innuendos—one involving the infamous little blue pill—but I was expecting the gags to go out of control. Not so. Instead, the short comment or sight gag… read more »

Once Again, Parents Are Being Told What’s Good For Their Children »

I’ve been keeping a lid on my opinions regarding Michael Moore’s Fahrenheit 9/11 for the simple reason I have not yet seen the film. Up to this point, all I can do is surmise Moore may be more of a publicist than a filmmaker. He’s certainly managed to whip up a frenzy that will ensure him attention at the box office when the movie… read more »

Once Again We See the Power of Media Influence »

I’ve read well over a hundred studies that cite the various affects of media on audiences—usually young people. The bookshelves of knowledge continue to grow, with early research being conducted primarily on the topic of violence in films and on television. As time has passed, an even broader range of issues have been examined, ranging… read more »

Making Sure Your Shields Aren’t Down »

I’m not what you would call a "Trekkie," but I must admit to enjoying many of the older Star Trek films, when (in my opinion) the franchise hit its peak. Way back in the 1980s, Captain Kirk was king, and in The Wrath of Khan, he showed how he could outsmart any space pirate after taking down the shields of an attacking ship, pirated… read more »

Tickle U: Is It Selling to Your 2 Year Old? »

The constant purveyor of everything animated, Cartoon Network has introduced a new daily series that has garnered an usual amount of press attention. Tickle U isn’t actually a program in itself, but instead is a two-hour block of a variety animated short series, all of which are expressly developed to appeal to the youngest television audience… read more »

Take2 Interactive: Guilty of Mocking ESRB Ratings? »

Is it a game publishers dream? Or nightmare?

Just when you thought the controversy surrounding Take2 Interactive’s Grand Theft Auto:San Andreas was fading away, a new development has brought the game back to the forefront of news media—and likely cash registers.

Let’s Put Technology to Work! »

It’s been an amazing couple of decades. I can still recall bringing my first VCR in the door shortly after I was married. The Betamax took a prominent place on our econo bookcase, and cost as much as a good quality used car. I promised my wife we would only need two tapes… one to record on and the other to watch.

TV Ratings—Time To Change the Program »

The Parent Television Council’s recently released report on television ratings confirms what nearly any parent who watches television already knows: That, in general, the TV ratings system isn’t meeting the needs of the portion of the population it’s designed to assist.

The Game of Revising Ratings »

In the late 1980s, the MPAA introduced the PG-13 rating in an effort to make a stepping-stone between PG and R. Now, the Entertainment Software Review Board (ESRB) has made a similar move with their video game rating system—except it’s near the tamer end of the scale.

Is Pornography Addictive? »

Part 3 – Who Do You Believe?

This is Part 3 of a three-part series. The opening article can be read here.

Is Pornography Addictive? »

Part 2 – A “Natural Teacher” or “Irresponsible and Dangerous?”
   
  This is Part 2 of a three-part series. The opening article can be read here.

Is Pornography Addictive? »

Part 1 – The Facts Are Sketchy, But the Picture is Clear

You’ve done everything you can. You filter your Internet connection. The V-chip is activated in your television. The parental lock is set on all your DVD players. And you keep an eye on video games and music coming through the door. But, even with all… read more »

Navigating the New World of Mean Girls »

Are girls getting meaner? It appears so. Over the past decade, experts have noted an increase in aggressive behavior involving female teens. But why is it happening? And how much effect do entertainment role models have on young girls who are either becoming bullies or are the recipients of derogatory remarks and physical abuse?

EmPOWered Women »

Female empowerment is becoming a big star on the silver screen of late. The images of women in need of protection are passé... the message of the new millennium is, “You go girl!”

In America and Overseas, Girls Yearn for a “Nip/Tuck” »

A recent survey conducted by a fashion magazine in Scotland asked young girls of that country what they would do to make themselves look more attractive. The surprising results showed nice clothes and the latest hairstyles are being replaced by something far more permanent: Plastic surgery.

Garry Marshall Defends Family Movies »

When Raising Helen released, I felt it would likely rank as one of the best family films of 2004. As the months have passed, I still hold firm to that opinion.

Classroom Matinees »

As a child, whenever I complained about being bored my mother would tell me to, “Go read a good book.” While studies show many children and teens still follow such sound advice, watching television and movies are still far more popular choices for recreational activities.

I’ll Have A PG-13 Please… Extra Violence, Hold the Sex »

When you watch as many movies as I do, you begin to see patterns developing—not only in types of movies made, but also how they are fine-tuned to fit into a particular classification. This is especially true of the popular PG-13 slot.

Good and Bad Video Games: The Divide Widens »

Have you ever heard of seriousgames.org? No, this isn’t an Internet hangout for hard-core gamers that fit the stereotypical image. Instead, this is an initiative project founded at the Woodrow Wilson Center for International Scholars in Washington DC.

Can Celebrity Problems Affect Your Family? »

It’s not easy living in a fishbowl, especially when you’ve been swimming in the public eye since you were born. Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen have literally grown up on our television screens. But perhaps the most important role they have unwittingly assumed during their glamorous careers is that of virtual sibling and example for millions… read more »

Signing Away Your Kids »

Imagine sending your child over to a stranger’s house for two hours. While there, you have a guarantee she will not be physically abused in any way, but the unknown adult with may say or do anything he wants, such as: take his clothes off, have sex with other partners, or perform any kind of violent act, including murder, on other people. Would… read more »

The Best Shot for Hollywood »

You know you’re getting somewhere when a newspaper writer on the other side of the continent takes his best shot at your cause.

Former Teacher Brings Real Lives to Video Games »

Many parents have bemoaned the time their children spend playing video games. However, there is light at the end of the screen with some of the latest recreational software, which actually have the ability to entertain, as well as <gasp!> teach valuable information to keyboarding kids.

The After School TV Blue »

Chances are your children come home from school feeling like they’ve run the 100-meter sprint. Exhausted from a hard day over the books, they want some “R ‘n R” time, and the most likely place they’ll choose to recline is in front of the television.

The Faithful Are Still Easy Pickings in Media »

My kids love blonde jokes. And for the most part, I put up with it. But I don’t know that I’m making the best decision. No matter how innocent it may seem, teaching children it’s permissible to make fun of any identifiable group of people, is potentially dangerous.

Is it Real or Reel? »

The media has always loved a good hoax. Take a look at this classic segment from 1957 when the serious British news program titled Panorama presented a two-and-a-half minute story covering the annual spaghetti harvest in Switzerland. The clip shows workers… read more »

Television Contributes to Attention Deficit Problems. Are We Surprised? »

Its been a while since I’ve sat down for a hearty feast of Saturday morning entertainment, and if it wasn’t for a seminar I was asked to present to a large group of teachers, I don’t know that I would have ever gotten around to meeting some of these top quality animated personalities.

Selling our Children &ndash; Product Placements »

E.T. – The Extraterrestrial was memorable for many reasons. But for the marketing industry, the film changed media forever.

A Porn Hero? In a Teen Comedy? Look Out For “The Girl Next Door” »

When hardened artistic film critics begin calling down studios for poor moral decisions, it’s time to stop and listen.

Selling Our Children: Thinking Outside of the Box »

The cold cereal flows with sophisticated 3D animated effects, while the announcer proclaims the multi-colored shapes to be “a part of this good breakfast.” The quick flash of the oversized bowl filled with the star product, sitting prominently in the center of the shot, will likely distract even the sharpest viewer from noticing the glass… read more »

Getting Fat on Television »

San Francisco Bay Area parents don’t want soft drink vending machines in their schools. Nor do they like the idea of having advertisements promoting food and beverages to their children in their educational environments. They are also likely to have their kids involved in organized sports on an annual basis.

Deciding If Your Children Should See The Passion of the Christ »

Countless times I’ve attended film screenings of movies I wouldn’t choose to see for myself, let alone my children. Yet just as often, after finding my seat, the empty chair beside me will be occupied by a child—accompanied by an adult whom I assume is their father or mother.

Reading Up on Teen Culture—YM and Seventeen »

Now that we’re up to date with a couple of the teen magazines aimed at the youngest adolescent audiences, it’s time to look at the two kingpins of this genre: YM and Seventeen.

Reading Up on Teen Culture—J-14 and Teen People »

My last column covered magazines aimed at teen audiences and discussed some of the general themes I found within the covers of four popular teen magazines.

This week we’re looking deep inside two of those magazines that market to the youngest teens—and likely even preadolescents.