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Broadcasters are aiming ever younger with their programming (and so are advertisers). In Israel there is a new channel called Baby that essentially broadcasts programs like Baby Einstien for children.
The screen also has information on the bottom crawl and side panel (thing the Headline News screen) for parent - where to buy stuff, how to raise you kids, etc.
I limited my son, when he was younger to watching either video tapes or watching commerical free TV.
The aim of commerical television in capturing younger viewers is to train future consumers. Once they are used to watching TV they will do so for the rest of their life. Advertisers like this.
It is interesting to note that the creators of Sesame Street formatted their show in such a way as to emulate the rapidity of commercials -- which they had observed drew children's attention more so than longer form televsion. While it can be argued that the content of Sesame Street is educational, it can also be argued that the form in which it is delivered educates children in how to watch television.
In the end, I realize there is no escape from television and the the only thing to do is: a) ensure that television is doled out in moderate amounts and b) watch what your kids are watching and talk to them about it. Talk to them about the shows and talk to them about the ads. Teach them to be active views rather than passive.
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"My hands are on fire. Hands are on fire. Ain't got no more time for all you charlatans and liars."
- Old Man Luedecke
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