Since the average child spends an estimated 30 hours a week watching television, it is important to consider the negative and positive effects of television viewing on the development of reading attitudes and habits. Possible negative aspects of television viewing include the following: the rapid pacing of programs encourages shallow reading; the immediacy of content and setting creates impatience with lengthy prose descriptions; the emphasis on fantasy material reduces interest in written fiction; and the popularity of books based on television specials fosters a pursuit of easy reading. On the positive side, teachers and parents who recognize the unique qualities of each child can use television viewing as a motivational tool or a supplement in the development of reading interests and skills. Specific ways to utilize television in reading development include contrasting authoritative materials on nutrition with the misconceptions presented on commercials, encouraging critical thinking through discussions of programs based on books, and pointing out the advantages of reading over television by offering a wide variety of reading experiences and setting an example of good reading habits. (MAI)