A.E.
Over 2 years ago now, my husband and I decided to CUT the cable and we haven't had it since. Ultimately, we decided we needed the extra money every month. And although it started out that way, we realized there were many OTHER benefits to not having TV as an option.
Before we decided to cancel the cable, I also was worried about not having kid's programs for my son when he got older and what we would do when the baby was asleep and we had the whole evening ahead of us. (Would we actually be bored?!)
After our cable was cancelled, I realized how much time was actually spent watching the TV. It took up our whole day and evening. We had begun to live life based off of what shows were on . . . "No, sorry. We can't come over for a visit tonight . . .CSI's on!" How lame! We were neglecting friends, time as a family, conversations as a couple, and exercise . . . to spend time with the TV!
We also had become immune to all the "dirt" on TV. We didn't realize all the bad language we were hearing and naughty things we were seeing until we weren't around it all day. (Now, you can't even watch shows with your kids because you have to be aware of the commercials!)
It was a great decision for us. My husband and I have actually talked about NEVER having cable again.
We do watch LOTS of movies! All those kid shows are on DVD now. My 2 year old still knows who Dora is and what Blue's Clues and the Backyardigans are and he hasn't had cable in his house since he was 6 months old!
When you have to put movies in for your children, it makes you VERY aware of how much time they're spending in front of the TV.
My husband and I rent movies ALL the time, it's what we do on those weeknights we ACTUALLY get to be home and the kids are in bed for the night! We have a lot of fun. There's something romantic about putting in a movie for the night and snuggling on the couch with popcorn!
I'm not recommending you cancel your cable. I'm just letting you know what worked for us and why. If you DO decided to cancel it, keep in mind it's HARD to stop watching TV cold turkey, but you'll get used to it. We don't "miss" TV anymore. :)
Good luck making a decision that works for YOUR family!! :)