When I was growing up in south Chi-town, getting to watch TV meant a whole different thing, baby. No remotes, satellites or flat panels. Just one of those little black-and-white numbers where you had to stick a coat hanger into the top to get a good reception. When it was time to watch the tube, we watched. When it was time to eat, or do homework, or do the chores, we flicked off the set and got down to business.

So, guess what? I ain't shocked to see that the newsboys are reporting that kids who watch TV in their bedrooms don't eat as well, or get out as much, or burn it up in the classroom too good.

I'm not turning into a TV terrorist or a NaziBC, bub. Kids can flick on the set every so often. I'm saying kids who spend ALL their time texting their vote to American Idol and not eating right or getting out will fall behind, big-time. Besides, if ABC and FOX spend more time with the kid than you do, don't be surprised if they don't want to talk to you when times are tough.

So have dinner together. Fix something healthy. Get your kids to pop open a book. They'll thank you later.