Nearly everything we do influences something about our future. In knowing that, what can we introduce children to now that will positively affect them later in life? And how does this involve what kids can view on and off of our ever present screens?

Many parents try their hardest to differentiate right from wrong for their children. But, there are others who push to establish wrong things as okay. American society confuses the two things.

For example, during the Super Bowl Halftime Show, Jennifer Lopez briefly pole danced on national television in a skimpy outfit. She and Shakira showed off much of their bodies and danced in suggestive ways. Children across the world viewed this. Some probably copied what their parents thought was wrong, simply because of what they saw on television. It could’ve given children the wrong idea.

“Research has found that media can influence children’s beliefs and behaviors in terms of violence and aggression, sex, substance abuse, obesity and eating disorders,” said American Academy of Pediatrics.

Children get their knowledge from what they hear, see, and experience. When children watch things like the recent halftime show, we should be asking ourselves, what does that teach them? What part do parents play in being responsible for the content during a Super Bowl?

“Be careful with what little kids watch, and if you see something inappropriate you should turn it off because it’s not for their age,” said Wade B.

Some people may argue that parents have the ability to stop their children from viewing inappropriate things. But, some children don’t have parents that watch their every move. 

“My parents did not really pay attention to the halftime show because they all go to eat food,” said 6th grader Jacklyn G.  

Everyone in society plays a part in what our future generation learns. Adults are responsible to  help to differentiate right from wrong instead of blurring the two together. 

“Study authors provide recommendations for parents, health care practitioners, schools, the entertainment industry and the government to increase the benefits and reduce the harm that media can have,” said American Academy of Pediatrics.