CHICAGO -- A new study says parents can succeed at preventing their preschoolers from becoming couch potatoes.

SEX/VIOLENCE Discuss: Regulate Sex, Violence On TV? Survey: Monitor Use? Survey: New Laws? HEALTHY VIEWING Tips for creating healthy viewing habits: Set limits -- 1 or 2 hours a day Plan viewing Watch with your child Find right message Resist commercials Find quality videos Give other options Set a good example Express your views Get more information Source: American Academy of Pediatrics

More than 40 youngsters ages 2 to 5 in upstate New York watched a weekly average of about 14 hours of TV and videos before the study. That's at the upper limit set by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

By the end of the study, the kids were watching less than 11 hours a week.

Kids put "No TV" signs on their television sets and made lists of fun activities besides TV. Parents rewarded them with stickers and schools held parties to celebrate surviving without TV.

One researcher said the study is significant because it shows success at an early age before the TV habit takes hold. Other studies have shown similar programs work in older children.

Too much TV can lead to weight gain and obesity. Scientists say more research is needed to see if reducing TV time can help prevent weight problems.

The AAP also says that too much televison can expose children to adult themes like sexuality, drugs and alcohol without providing information about context and consequences.