No, I don’t think you’re being too protective. Our children are influenced by everything they see and hear, including things that former generations never had available to them.

After all, how do children decide what’s right or wrong? They decide by what they observe — both in our lives and the lives of others. If they grow up thinking there’s nothing wrong with violence, sexual immorality, greed, or anything else they see in the media, why are we surprised if they adopt those ways of living? The media can be a powerful influence on young people, for good or for ill. The Bible says, “Listen, my son, and be wise, and set your heart on the right path” (Proverbs 23:19).

What can you do? First, help your children understand why you disapprove of certain types of entertainment, even if their friends are permitted to experience them. You can’t shield them from the realities of the world (nor should you), but you can help them understand that God’s way is best. Newspaper or Internet reviews can help you decide in advance what videos are appropriate for your children.

The most important thing you can do, however, is to make Christ the center and foundation of your family’s life. God has given your children to you, and you have the privilege of helping them discover God’s plan for them. The Bible’s command applies to our children, as well as us: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2).

Read more about this topic:

Stick to Your Moral Standards: A Q&A with Billy Graham
Monitor Your Child’s TV Viewing: A Q&A with Billy Graham

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