SU to host training for first statewide TV-Turnoff Week

Friday, March 16, 2007, By News Staff

SU to host training for first statewide TV-Turnoff WeekMarch 16, 2007Gillian Ottmangeottma@syr.edu

The Center for Screen-Time Awareness, in association with the New York State Department of Health, is providing training for the first statewide TV-Turnoff Week. The training, which is free and open to the public, will take place on Thursday, March 22, from 9-11 a.m. in Rooms 304A,B and C of Syracuse University’s Hildegarde and J. Myer Schine Student Center. SU’s College of Human Services and Health Professions (HSHP) is sponsoring the training session.

TV-Turnoff Week is scheduled for April 23-29. The television-free week seeks to promote healthy lifestyles for children, adults and family units.

Training for this pioneer initiative is particularly beneficial for educators and those working in community-based organizations. Anyone interested in fighting obesity, challenging illiteracy and violence, and building functional families in vibrant communities should attend. To learn more, visit http://www.screentime.org.

TV-Turnoff Week is endorsed by more than 65 national organizations, including the American Medical Association, the National Education Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. According to an independent study, the television-free week improves students’ reading habits and their attitudes toward reading, especially among those who identify themselves as poor readers. Since 1995, more than 24 million people have participated in TV-Turnoff Week nationally.

HSHP brings together SU’s professional programs in child and family studies, health and wellness, hospitality management, marriage and family therapy, nutrition, social work and sport management in an environment of cross-disciplinary teaching, research, practice and service. Through classroom learning and hands-on experience, students in the college are prepared to become professionals who will provide the services that enhance the emotional and physical well-being of individuals, families and communities.