Introducing movies to your children can be a rewarding experience, creating shared memories and sparking imaginations. However, navigating the world of cinema with young viewers requires careful consideration. This guide focuses on helping parents make informed decisions about movies, addressing key aspects like content appropriateness, viewing strategies, and alternative versions, using the approach of “Would you rather?” to help frame the choices.
TL;DR Version
- Consider Your Child’s Maturity: Introduce movies with themes appropriate for their age and understanding. This could be any age, as long as they can discuss the themes.
- Segmented Viewing: Break down movies into shorter, manageable segments (e.g., 20-minute intervals) for younger audiences.
- Strategic Ordering: Explore alternative viewing orders, like the “Machete Order”, to enhance surprise and emotional impact.
- Explore Fan Edits: Look into fan-edited versions that may remove potentially problematic content.
- Make it an Event: Turn movie time into a special occasion with related activities and discussions.
The Detailed Guide: Navigating Movie Night with Your Kids
Like many parents, you may be conscious of your children’s screen time. It’s a balancing act. Finding shows that are appropriate, but also engaging. When the topic of a popular movie franchise emerges in discussions with kids, the decision of when and how to introduce them can be tricky. It’s crucial to remember that every child is different, and their sensitivities and comprehension levels will vary. Therefore, consider this a starting point and adjust to suit your family’s needs.
Luke Skywalker Toy with Lightsaber
Structure and Timing: “Would you rather… Watch the whole thing or break it down?”
Before diving into a movie, it’s wise to preview it yourself to identify any potentially sensitive content. Resources like Kids In Mind offer detailed breakdowns of film content.
Consider showing the film in shorter sittings, perhaps 20 minutes at a time. This approach is particularly useful for younger children, allowing them to absorb the story without becoming overwhelmed. Breaking a film into segments also creates anticipation and provides opportunities for discussion.
Discussion: “Would you rather… Just watch or talk about it?”
The most significant advantage of segmented viewing is the opportunity for discussion and processing. Pausing the movie at key moments to ask questions like, “Why did the character do that?” can stimulate critical thinking and engagement. This helps children connect with the story on a deeper level and understand character motivations.
If you sense that your child isn’t grasping the themes, it’s perfectly acceptable to postpone the viewing and revisit it later. The goal is for them to understand and appreciate the story.
Versions: “Would you rather… See the original or a special edition?”
Many films have multiple versions, including special editions with added effects or altered scenes. Additionally, a thriving community of fan editors creates alternative versions of popular movies. “Harmy’s Despecialized Edition,” is a popular example, aiming to preserve the original theatrical release by removing later additions. Consider exploring these options to find a version that aligns with your preferences and values.
Movie Ordering: “Would you rather… Watch in release order or a different way?”
While most viewers initially experience movies in their release order, alternative viewing orders can enhance the viewing experience. One popular approach is the “Machete Order,” which aims to maintain surprises and emotional impact. This order typically involves skipping the first film and rearranging the subsequent installments. Consider the pros and cons of different viewing orders to determine the best approach for your family.
After certain installments, such as a darker or more violent film, consider pausing the series to allow children to mature and process the themes. Being mindful of the intensity of the content is essential.
Navigating Sensitive Content: “Would you rather… Skip it or explain it?”
Some movies contain scenes that may be disturbing or inappropriate for young viewers. You have several options for addressing this content:
- Omission: Skip the scene altogether, fast-forwarding through it or turning off the movie briefly.
- Explanation: Discuss the scene with your child, explaining the context and themes in an age-appropriate manner.
- Alternative Interpretation: Offer a less graphic interpretation of the scene, focusing on the characters’ emotions or motivations.
The best approach will depend on the specific scene and your child’s sensitivities.
Conclusion
Introducing movies to your kids can be a fantastic journey. By carefully considering the content, structure, and viewing experience, you can create lasting memories and foster a love of cinema in your children. Remember to prioritize open communication and adjust your approach based on your family’s unique needs and preferences.
The ultimate goal is to facilitate discussions about character motivations, differences between right and wrong, good versus evil, and how to make an alien mask.
