LIGHTS ON!

Dr. Bear,

With the holidays upon us and family gatherings near, I would like to submit a question. My sisters and brothers allow their children to watch television with no lights on in their rooms. I make my daughter and her friends have the light on in the room when watching television. The kids say it ruins the fun. I say it's better for your eyes. Can you please clue us in or give us a rule of thumb.

Sincerely,
Lights On!

Dear Lights On,
I know of no reason to leave lights on for eye health, but for other reasons I think leaving the lights on is a good idea. First of all, you won't have people trip, fall, or hurt themselves as they vegetate and then move around the room while in front of the tv. Second, by having a light on it may encourage conversation with other adults who should probably best be in a room when kids are watching tv - and later discuss what they saw. Also, BY THE WAY, less TV and more talk or reading will probably serve your family, friends and relatives better. How about a good board game now and then? After the trip to the library or Barnes and Noble.

Sincerely,
Dr. Bear