Make Every Drop Matter - Newsletter Issue 7

by Claudia Keech

Claudia Keech is the editor of Australia's online magazine for modern mums - www.motherinc.com.au - and mother of 12 year old Callan. Claudia worked for 20 years in journalism and PR before she gave birth to her son. She now runs what has become the largest online magazine for mothers in Australia and is frequently featured in the media talking on all-things-parenting.

A topic Claudia is frequently asked about is advertising and the role it plays in generating 'pester power'.

“When kids are very young it's difficult for them to understand how advertising works but as they get older it's important to teach them the skills to make good choices throughout their lives,” said Claudia.

Claudia's Tips on teaching your kids about advertising:

Talk your kids through advertisements which may have influenced them.

When your child is a bit older, discuss the nature of the advertising with them.
Talk them through why ads are made and the affect that they are supposed to
have on their behaviour.

Make a suggestion to your child's school that they consider a lesson or group
project on the power of advertising.

Children learn well when interacting in lively conversation with friends. A group
    project will also allow them to discuss advertising amongst themselves,
    recognise the marketing techniques being used and learn to think critically
    about the content. It is also another way to help them deal with pressure from
    their peers to keep up with the latest fad.

Kids TV programming - Keep an eye on what your children are watching.

Every now and then sit down with your child and discuss the content of both the programs and advertisements they are watching.

Control TV time - before it controls you!

Television can provide a huge amount of interesting, entertaining and
educational programming, but kids still need down time to use their own
minds... or time to do nothing at all!

Back to Email