Hi Chana,
I think there are some programs for children that are great and can be educational for them. However there's also a lot out there that are not and influencing our children in ways we can't even imagine.
The biggest issue for me however is not so much the TV programs but the advertisements in between. The power of advertisements at a subliminal level is so powerful and is reflected in the consumer society we have today. Is it any wonder kids want more all the time when they are constantly bombarded with the latest gadgets and must have items? (Even as young as 2 or 3 years old). In fact as adults we're also affected. We need the best cars, clothes, the new anti-aging creams, and the list goes on....
I agree with flower70 that TV should be kept to a minimum for very young children and that they should be playing outdoors and learning how to interact with other people. I also think that children under 2 don't really need TV. Although if I'm honest when my daughter was younger putting the TV on for a half hour allowed me to get other things done.
I guess, the responsibility falls on us, the parents, to ensure that we constantly monitor what our children are watching and to always ensure it's age specific.
Great topic! Makes you think...
Vicki