TV & Computer

We always tell ourselves not to let our kid be a potato couch or hook into computer games. And somehow, we failed thus far. Lucas is into watching TV. He can spent his whole afternoon, after school and lunch, watching TV. He doesn't mind if the shows are re-run for umpty times. Then, he is into computer interactive games. Playhouse Disney has interactive games for most of its shows and he will somehow managed to navigate the mouse and started playing the games. Pathetic activities for a 3 1/2 years old.
So, I am determined and trying to break his bad habit. I tried to get him to do any other activities other than watching TV and playing games. I got him watercolours to draw - this took 30-45 mins off TV time. When I am not in a conference call late afternoon, I will get him out of the house. We will either go to the neighbour's house jumping on trampoline or in the garden playing with ball, sand, water or cycling.
Now I understand what it means when others said you need to spend time with your kids. The kids need to be encouraged and accompanied to do their activities. If they are left alone or the parents do not have the time, watching TV is the best solution for both the kids and parents. Sad but true.
Everyday, I am thinking what can I do to get Lucas to do to get him off the TV and computer. And when will he be old enough to do this own things without being accompanied 100%. It is not easy.