parent guide to movies

2 min read 22-11-2024

Finding family-friendly movies that everyone enjoys can be a challenge. This guide helps parents navigate the world of movie ratings and choose films suitable for their children's ages and maturity levels. We'll explore different rating systems, offer tips for pre-screening movies, and suggest resources to help you make informed decisions.

Understanding Movie Ratings Systems

Several rating systems help parents determine a movie's suitability. The most common in the US is the MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America) rating system. It uses these ratings:

G (General Audiences): Suitable for all ages.
PG (Parental Guidance Suggested): Some material may not be suitable for young children.
PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned): Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.
R (Restricted): Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.
NC-17 (No One 17 and Under Admitted): Adults only.

Other countries have their own rating systems, so be sure to check the local ratings before watching a film. Websites like Common Sense Media offer additional information and parent reviews.

Beyond the Rating: Considering Content

Movie ratings offer a starting point, but they don't tell the whole story. Even a G-rated movie might contain scenes that frighten a younger child. Consider these factors:

Themes: Does the movie deal with mature themes like death, violence, or complex relationships?
Violence: Is the violence realistic, graphic, or cartoonish? How much violence is there?
Language: Is there inappropriate language or cursing?
Frightening Scenes: Are there scenes that might scare your child?

How to Pre-Screen Movies

Before letting your child watch a movie, consider these pre-screening tips:

Read reviews: Check Common Sense Media, IMDb, or other websites for reviews from parents. Look for details about content that might be concerning.
Watch the trailer: Trailers often highlight key scenes and themes, giving you a quick overview.
Check the movie's synopsis: Many websites provide detailed synopses, outlining the plot and highlighting potentially problematic scenes.
Consider your child's maturity level: Even if a movie is age-appropriate, your child's individual sensitivity and maturity should be considered. Some children may be more sensitive to certain themes than others.

Age-Specific Movie Suggestions

While every child is different, here are some general guidelines:

Preschool (Ages 2-5):

Focus: Simple stories, bright colors, familiar characters.
Examples: "Toy Story," "Finding Nemo," "Paddington" (depending on the child's sensitivity)

Early Elementary (Ages 6-8):

Focus: More complex plots, introduction to more diverse characters and themes.
Examples: "Moana," "How to Train Your Dragon," "The Mitchells vs. the Machines"

Late Elementary/Middle School (Ages 9-12):

Focus: More nuanced characters, complex plots, beginning exploration of more mature themes.
Examples: "Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse," "Penguins of Madagascar", "Back to the Future"

Teenagers (Ages 13+):

Focus: Mature themes, complex characters, realistic portrayals of life. Appropriate PG-13 and R-rated movies with parental guidance.
Examples: Many options depending on the teenager’s interests and maturity level. Always review the content before allowing them to watch.

Resources for Parents

Several websites offer valuable information and tools to help you choose movies:

Common Sense Media: Provides detailed reviews, age recommendations, and discussions of movie content.
IMDb: Offers user reviews, ratings, and detailed movie information.
Parents' Choice Awards: Recognizes high-quality family entertainment.

Conclusion

Choosing age-appropriate movies for your children involves more than just checking the rating. By understanding different rating systems, pre-screening movies, and utilizing available resources, you can help ensure that your family movie nights are both enjoyable and enriching. Remember to always consider your child's individual maturity level and sensitivities. Happy watching!