Emphasizing the influence of television on children, this pamphlet explores some of the major criticisms of television and discusses ways parents can help their children get the most out of television. It is argued that the major problem with television is the amount of time that it steals from our lives, time that could be spent in developing intellectual and social skills. Viewing television may also negatively affect school performance by discouraging the development of interpretive skills, problem-solving strategies, the use of the imagination, long attention span, and the desire to read print. Television may also affect personality development by presenting models who reinforce ethnic and sex stereotypes, are prone to use violence, and are rewarded for foolish behavior or the manipulation and deception of others. The materialism promoted by quiz and game shows and commercials may distort social values as well as deceive young children who cannot perceive the true worth of products. Children have to learn to tell fact from fiction; they may find this particularly difficult when viewing docudramas. Guidelines are suggested to help parents who wish their children to avoid these hazards. These include limiting viewing time, discussing and monitoring programs, providing alternative activities, and contacting sponsors and networks to voice opinions about particular programs. (CB)