Do this at twilight

1. Recite the shloka 'Shubham karoti' : Twilight starts immediately after the sunset. In order to protect ourselves from the evil energies, which are very active at this time, it is necessary to follow the conduct given in our scriptures. So after the sunset, we should wash our hands and feet, light a lamp in front of the idol of a Deity and recite the following shloka:

Meaning : The flame of the lamp is auspicious and beneficial. It gives health, wealth and destroys hatred. Hence, O flame, I bow down to you.

Full shloka is available at : http://balsanskar.com/marathi/lekh/25.html

2. Offer a prayer and recite stotras (A hymn of praise for a Deity) like the Ramrakshastotra and Marutistotra.

3. Offer Namaskar to elders to get their blessings.

4. Recite arithmetical tables, days of the week, Tithis (Days according to the lunar calendar), Nakshatre (a group of stars forming a recognised pattern), etc.
 

Benefits of reciting stotras

1. All the members in the family should come together at least at twilight, in order to recite stotras. This will create good sanskars (subconscious impressions) on the minds of children. When all the members of the family come together to offer prayers, interact with one another, youngsters offer Namaskar to elders, elders explain the importance of celebration of a particular festival to children, help to enhance family bonds.

2. Recitation of stotras after lighting the lamp at twilight helps children remember it better. It improves their speech as well as pronunciation.

3. The sattvik (pure) vibrations created due to recitation of stotras purify the house.

4. If the stotras are recited by understanding its meaning, it helps in developing bhav (spiritual emotion) and faith in the Deity.

- Ms. Gayatri Butte

        So children, start reciting 'Shubham karoti' today itself and say 'Goodbye' to television.