The Berenstain Bears and Too Much TV
#300 of 86 in The Berenstain Bears Series
on Goodreads (16,814)
What’s inside...
When the television set is broken, Mama and Papa Bear's plan to have their little bears do other things, but then the neighbors' television sets go on the blink as well. This classic Berenstain Bears story is a perfect way to teach children that it's possible to have fun and be entertained without relying on technology. Come for a visit in Bear Country with this classic First Time Book® from Stan and Jan Berenstain. Papa, Brother, and Sister have a new favorite hobby, watching TV. But when Mama feels like they are missing out on all the wonderful things around them, she makes a plan to get them away from the TV and into the outdoors. Includes over 50 bonus stickers!
Character compass
Brother Bear
Sister Bear
Papa Bear
Mama Bear
Discussion points
What do you think the Bear family learned by not watching TV for a week?
How did the activities they did instead make them feel?
Can you think of fun activities we could do together instead of watching TV?
Why is it important to spend time doing things other than watching TV?
How do you feel after a day with less screen time?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, relating it to their own experiences with TV and screen time. Validate their feelings and share your perspectives to foster a deeper understanding. Use the book as an opportunity to brainstorm fun, screen-free activities that you can do as a family. Highlight the benefits of diverse experiences and interpersonal connections, reinforcing the message with positive reinforcement and excitement for planned activities.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Limiting Screen Time
Explanation: In 'The Berenstain Bears and Too Much TV', Mama Bear notices her family's excessive TV watching and implements a week-long ban on TV. This helps the Bear family engage in more productive activities.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to balance screen time with other activities like reading, playing outdoors, or creative hobbies, promoting a healthier lifestyle.
Example Lesson: Family Togetherness
Explanation: During the TV ban, the Bear family finds alternative ways to spend time together, such as playing board games and going on walks, which strengthens their family bond.
Real-World Application: Families can set specific times for family activities that don't involve screens, fostering deeper relationships and communication among family members.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Imagination
Explanation: With the absence of TV, Brother and Sister Bear use their imagination to play and create their own entertainment, rediscovering old toys and games.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to use their imagination and creativity rather than passively consuming content, enhancing their cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Healthy Habits
Explanation: The story shows that reducing screen time leads to more physical activity and better sleeping patterns for the Bear family.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of an active lifestyle and proper rest, contributing to overall physical and mental health.