At the pediatric dentist's office, I was taken aback by the flat panel TVs, tuned to the Cartoon Network, mounted on the wall and on the ceiling in the room where they cleaned my sons' teeth.

My kids aren't familiar with CN so Kenny asked for The Science Channel.

Their system doesn't carry it, so they switched to The Discovery Channel. Both he and Tim watched a program on catching and tagging sharks, yes, completely engrossed but at least it was "real life science" - biology or something.

I just don't get why adults - professionals, even those who work with children - have this mentality that kids must be mesmerized by TV to make them easier to deal with.

I actually find it harder to interact with children when a TV is in view. I can't compete!