Without these shows, children might not be exposed to those subjects adequately. School textbooks and science classes are often not rigorous, comprehensive, or interesting enough. Many students become interested in subjects after seeing them on television. Science programming also includes shows on space and technology, which can also inspire kids to study science more rigorously when they are in school. Because so many science shows take care to represent both genders, young girls who might otherwise feel that science is just for boys can feel more confident in pursuing science in school. Children of all ages can benefit greatly from watching scientific shows. Young kids simply like to watch animals and spaceships on television, and older kids might get ideas for science projects from watching TV.

             Even the television news, which can be overloaded with crime stories, has something to offer children. Older children especially need to become aware of current events, including crime, so that they can make educated decisions on their own. After watching the news, parents should encourage their children to form their own opinions on political issues. Too often, children either directly inherit or rebel against their parents" politics. Watching the news might help children think critically and independently. Because some television news elements can be disturbing, children will learn that the world is not always a safe place full of toys and games. Shielding children from the outside world is not an option any more; parents would be wiser to train their children into understanding the dangers of such things as talking to strangers. Furthermore, if they are exposed to some of the terrible events that are occurring worldwide, from the genocide in the Sudan to the war in Iraq, children might be more likely to take positive action when they are older.

             Entertainment television shows can be tawdry, and reality television is especially insidious.