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Media "Sweeps" And How It May Affect What You And Your Family Watch
February sweeps are on the horizon - do you know what you children are watching?.

February is a "sweeps" month on TV, a time when detailed ratings information is collected and used to set advertising rates. Because higher ratings mean more money from advertisers, media companies go out of their way to attract viewers during this time. Look for new episodes, sweepstakes, big-name guest stars, and blockbuster movies. And expect local news programs to air sensational reports, all in an effort to increase ratings.

This is a good time to talk with your children about the commercial implications of media. Help them realize that TV programs are paid for by advertisements, and even movies, websites, video games, and music are increasingly supported by ads and products that companies pay to have used by the characters and singers. Just because your children's favorite characters use certain products on air, it doesn't mean that those products are better; it just means that they are getting paid to show them.

For more information about talking with your children about media, see the Parent Resources section at www.pta.org or the Media Smart area at