While many films don’t carry age restrictions, that still doesn’t mean a toddler can watch them. Young children can easily become overwhelmed with what’s being shown to them on a big screen. They may not understand the plot or characters, and can become emotionally distraught by the cinematic drama.
That’s why children generally shouldn’t make their first big-screen experience until they’re age four or five, says Kristin Langer, an awareness campaigner for media consumption by children.
Parents should keep in mind that noises in the cinema are much louder than in front of their TV at home, meaning children can easily get scared and want to leave the cinema.
That’s why parents should carefully consider whether their child is ready to make their first trip to the cinema. The best time may ultimately depend on how much experience the child already has with watching on a TV or tablet.
Ideally, a child’s first time at the movies will be with their own parents, not with a friend’s parents. Even five-year-olds need a familiar, reassuring shoulder to lean on during intense scenes.
And even if films are typically two hours long, usually 45 minutes of film length are enough for a child’s first time at the cinema.
What do you do when your child gets scared during tense or creepy scenes? Langer suggests holding hands and asking if the child wants to step outside for a moment.
“You might explain how the tricks of the camera are created by technicians,” Langer says. “Children also need to be sure that exciting moments end well,” says Langer.
An absolute no-go is to dismiss the child’s fears and say “it’ll all be over soon” or “You have to stay — we paid for the cinema tickets”. – dpa
