Parenting Tips-What Movies Should My Child Watch?

     A fellow parent and avid fan of the blog was lamenting to me just the other day about a child-related mishap she experienced regarding a questionable film. The film in question was the Universal Pictures 2011 release "Bridesmaids", a movie that is rated 'R' for strong sexuality and language throughout. This parent took her 11-year-old to the movie theater believing this to be an innocent, family-friendly romp that her and her young daughter could enjoy together, but what happened was a much different, and much darker story. It turns out that despite her most sincere effort the movie had strong sexuality and language throughout, ruining their mother-daughter day. This got me thinking about how a parent could avoid a similar disaster and I believe I have come up with a revolutionary idea to address this issue. I call it "pre-screening", and here is how it works.
     In the past a parents only choice when determining what films to take children was to choose based on the film's title alone without the help of ratings, reviews, or previews. With "pre-screening" the first phase is to watch a preview of the potential film, look at the ratings and why the film drew such ratings, and even consult other parents, friends, or family to get a feel for what they might expect in the theater. If the parent believes the movie is fit for their kid they may move on to phase 3, but if questions still linger they can move on to phase 2 of the "pre-screening". Phase 2 is a little more complex, but well worth the effort exerted. Basically it involves the parent, or parents, going to see the movie without kids. Going to a movie without kids has endless benefits but for the sake of the subject matter we will keep it within the context of "pre-screening".If you go to a movie without kids and it ends up being a filth bath you simply do not return with the children, and potentially avoid having to post bail for them years down the road. If you give it your own personal thumbs up then move on to phase 3. The last and most rewarding phase of "pre-screening" simply involves you going back to the theater with your children to watch a film containing no dirty surprises and enjoying a clean family night out!
     I hope this helps you parents out there, and if you know someone who is struggling with this very issue I encourage you to direct them here. Have a blessed day!