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CommonSense Media Blog

Archive Index: October 2006

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Archive: October 2006

Our Votes for Best Political Media

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Red states, blue states, elephants, and donkeys: there’s no doubt about it, election season is in full swing. And while this time of year might be heaven for political junkies, all of the hubbub can leave some kids wondering just what, exactly, is going on?

To help parents introduce their kids to the political system, Common Sense Media recommends the following Web sites, TV shows, and movies:

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The Electronic Pacifier: No TV under two!

Today I got a firsthand glimpse of the pacifier wars. And I’m not talking about “binky vs. blankie-n-thumb”…

There’s an all out battle for parent’s mindshare as consumer advocates like Dr. Susan Linn, co-founder of Campaign for a Commercial Free Childhood, face off with the electronic baby media empire, that’s racking up well over a billion dollars in sales of Brainy Baby, Baby Einstein and Sesame Beginnings DVDs.

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How Reality Television Impacts Health

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Reality television shows can raise awareness about certain issues -- such as smoking or obesity -- but also may emphasize values such as physical beauty, which can have a negative impact, especially on impressionable adolescents. The shows also provides ample "stealth" marketing opportunities.

This is according to a discussion paper prepared by Lewis and Clark College communications professor Peter Christenson and American University communications assistant professor Maria Ivancin.

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Ellegirl: Same Old Same Old in Online Package

Ellegirl Magazine online… Heard through Ypulse.com there was going to be all sorts of interesting stuff in it, like about nerd girls and engineering. We were hopeful.

So what’s missing in the site's lineup of fashion, beauty, entertainment, boys, mylife, community, quizzes, games, and horoscopes?

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Keep The Little Consumers Coming

This week Disney announced with much fanfare that it’s setting nutrition guidelines on the food it markets to kids. The media reported this “news” with the usual exaggeration and lack of analysis.

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Girls Aren't Reflected in Animated Movies

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Spooky Stuff

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The Five Biggest Themes of What Teens Want West

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What Parents Should Do About The New Bully

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What's Behind Beauty?

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Bully for You?

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Braniacs in Bikinis

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YouTube, Google, and Your Kids

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Our Paris

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The New Bathroom Wall

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MySpace Worries

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Wal-Mart Elves: Crass Commercialism, Interactive ‘Tude

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Adult Shows Rank No. 1 Among Kids

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Just the Facts

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Not Wild About Harry

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Talking to Your Kids About School Shootings

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Not Out to Lunch

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Sanity Not Censorship

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