1.      Explain what is meant by the term media. Give four examples. Explain what is meant by the term critic.

2.      Discuss three principles that help us form good reading, viewing, and listening habits.

3.      Keep a log of the time you spend each day with the different types of media. Note whether the media is Christ-centered or secular. Do this for two weeks.

4.      Do one of the following with an adult:

a.      Watch TV

b.      Read a story

c.      Listen to a tape

1.      Become a "Media Critic" and discuss together the good and bad points of each.

2.      With an adult, use a television guide, book club listing, etc., to choose what you could watch or read.

3.      Listen to the beginning of a short story and add your own ending.

1.      Media are forms of communication that reach a large number of people, such as newspapers and magazines, television, films and videos, books, radio, and musical recordings. Explain to the Adventurers that any form of media in itself is neutral, and that it can be used for good or bad. Explain that in today's society, children and adults will be bombarded by media messages; it is hard to avoid being affected by what we see and hear and read. That's why it is important to learn to control the media by choosing what is good and helpful.

2.      Read Philippians 4:8 together and encourage the Adventurers to use it as a guideline in making choices about what they do and see. Explain and discuss these principles with the Adventurers, and ask them to tell you what they have learned from this Bible verse.

3.      Teach the Adventurers to be aware of time spent with Jesus compared to time spent on secular activities. Help each child make a chart to keep track of his or her viewing and reading activities for at least two weeks.

4.      Encourage the Adventurers to select a story or program that they feel will meet the standards of Philippians 4:8. Help them understand that you cannot always tell by reading a review or advertisement if it will be good by Jesus' standards. When you begin reading or viewing, if it is not proper, stop! Find something else. Encourage the children to make good choices.

5.      Early selection helps us realize how much time we spend on these activities and helps us to be more selective.

6.      Reinforce the principles of good reading and viewing habits as the Adventurers complete the story. Encourage imagination!