Here is some advice about young children and movies:

• Pay attention to ratings and be sure you are aware of what is depicted in a show or movie before allowing your children to watch. Think twice about asking friends and relatives about movies unless you know they have the same values and parenting ideas as you do - what they think is appropriate and what you think is appropriate may be two different things. There are some great web sites that will review and break down what is in movies for young children so you can decide for your self (see below).

• The minds of young children are especially vulnerable to violence and they have a very difficult time separating what is real from what is fiction. They internalize much of what they see and hear this may lead to unnecessary fears, acting out, and sleep problems.

• If your child is watching something for the first time - watch with them. You can then monitor what your child is seeing. Some children will alert their parents if they are scared of something they see, others just internalize their feeling.

• Don't be afraid to turn the TV off, or walk out of the movies. If you or your child feels uncomfortable then don't watch. Listen to your instincts - children may tell you they are not scared, but if you feel what they are watching is not appropriate then act on those feelings. (see our tip on how to set limits with screen-time)

• The content of movies and shows that are violent and scary have no place in a child’s world so don’t expose them to it. Choose what your children will see wisely. They will sleep better and so will you!

Related Tips

• How to set limits with screen-time (age 2-4)
• Here are some practical tips for limiting screen time.
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• Media literacy (ages 2-4)
• What can you do to help your child become media literate?
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