A recent study has revealed that television programmes running in the back ground have a negative impact on the children, during their play and learn phase.

University of Iowa researchers found that background television could divert a child's attention from play and learning and that non-educational programs could negatively affect children's cognitive development.

The team found a relationship between the content children were exposed to and their executive function, an important facet in learning and development.

Deborah Linebarger, UI associate professor, said that Children, whose parents created a home environment that was loving and nurturing and where rules and expectations were the same from one time to another, were better able to control their behavior, display more empathy, and did better academically.

In particular, Linebarger suggested the parents to be mindful what their children view on the tube, especially the content of a show.

Researchers said that among the impacts of background TV, it recruited kids' attention away from other activities, such as play and learning.

The study was published in the Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics.