In the report, Children and Television today, commissioned by Freeview, the clinical psychologist applies the term "Viewtrition" to the support that should be available when it comes to managing kids' TV experiences.
Despite the negativity often associated with children watching TV, eight out of 10 parents questioned believed it has a positive effect on their child's development, including helping them to expand their imagination (63%) and broaden vocabulary (60%).
The research also shows that 50% of parents said having a digital TV recorder has revolutionised their child's viewing in a positive way, and parents recognise that having one, makes it easier to control and plan what their child watches around busy family routines.
Byron said: "I, too, believe that television has a positive role to play in a child's development, but it does need to be monitored and managed responsibly.
"Each parent knows their child best and the Freeview Viewtrition Guide is about giving parents information and advice that they can then adapt and use to help provide their children a balanced TV diet."
Other key findings include 66% of parents identifying the positive effect TV is having on their child's numeracy and musical skills.
The research includes surveys with 1,880 parents of children aged between two and 11, courtesy of Mumsnet.com.
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