It can be hard for young people to make sense of what they hear on the radio, see on television and the movies, or read in the papers, magazines and on the Internet.

They are bombarded daily with messages from many different places - all trying to get their attention. Not all of these messages are healthy for your children. Help them think for themselves about what they hear, see and read with these steps:

Get to know what your children are reading, watching and listening to.

Listen and watch programmes with your children and talk about them.

Teach your children to ask questions such as: What is said - what is the message of the programme, picture or article?

What is not said (hidden messages).

What values are communicated?

What stereotypes are used?

Who is it for?

Who paid for it?

What is it trying to tell you?

What do you agree with, what do you disagree with?

Set reasonable limits on what and how much radio, television or Internet your children can use - such as less television time but more netball or reading instead. Help your children choose programmes that give honest information, share your values and make your children feel good about themselves.

Don't forget to respect your children's opinions!