Dear Ann Landers,


Dear Ann,
This is how we solved the TV problem in our family: We sat down with our kids and admitted we had left too much decision-making up to them. We announced there would be new rules and regulations and they would have to stick to them. We set up a bedtime schedule. Sample: The seven-year-old should be in bed at 8:00 p.m. and the nine- year-old at 8:30. And don't take any lip. The next step is a tough one because it requires some giving on Mother's part. Keep the TV off for several days, even if it means missing some of your favorite programs-or Dad's. (You'll need his help with this.) Then sit down and read with your children. Play chess, put on some good records. Help them discover the world beyond the idiot-box. Allow them to resume their TV viewing with a fresh outlook-schoolwork and chores com-pleted-and you decide what's worth watching. Don't expect success without plenty of sweating, Mother. And don't try it at all unless you have the guts.-Judy W.