It turns out many parents assumed these videos were educational for children, and by offering this "customer satisfaction" refund, Disney essentially agrees that the video titling was misleading. However the American Association of Pediatrics says this of TV and Toddlers:
"It may be tempting to put your infant or toddler in front of the television, especially to watch shows created just for children under age two. But the American Academy of Pediatrics says: Don't do it! These early years are crucial in a child's development. The Academy is concerned about the impact of television programming intended for children younger than age two and how it could affect your child's development. Pediatricians strongly oppose targeted programming, especially when it's used to market toys, games, dolls, unhealthy food and other products to toddlers. Any positive effect of television on infants and toddlers is still open to question, but the benefits of parent-child interactions are proven. Under age two, talking, singing, reading, listening to music or playing are far more important to a child's development than any TV show. For more information on your child's health, visit www.aap.org"
Waldorf educators also believe that media is not supportive of child development. Many schools ask families to eliminate media before fifth grade, and ideally until eighth grade. Read here for a comprehensive article and list of research links.
Another recent product update has parents in a buzz - SIGG water bottles made prior to August 2009 may have been made using BPA. SIGG also did not offer a "recall" but is instead offering an "exchange" program for customers who were not happy with BPA content of SIGG Aluminum water bottle liners. (Be sure to get your replacement SIGG bottle before the "exchange" ends on October 31 - details here.)
Does anyone else find it interesting that these companies aren't admitting to creating any negative social consequence through false marketing or faulty product creation?
I've been suspicious of the whole concept of making our babies little Einstein's from the start. Interesting that Disney is actually refunding on their DVD's. I worry about little ones and too much TV. Whenever I hear a parent tell me their child knows all the words to a particular movie it makes me sad.....too much TV time, not enough Mom time.
Thanks for the heads up on this and the water bottles too
Gail