Taking your child to the movies for the first time? It's easier than you think with these expert tips

Taking your child to the movie theater for the first time can be exciting, but also tricky if you are under-prepared.

PUBLISHED 5 HOURS AGO

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Going to watch a movie with your child for the first time can be a memorable experience, provided you know how to tackle any situation. The loud noise, crowd, and intense lighting can be overwhelming for any child, and they are not to blame. However, with the right guidance, it doesn’t have to be as stressful as it's thought to be. From choosing the right film and showtime to packing snacks and preparing your child for what to expect, small steps can make a huge difference. Experts have revealed ways to make the movie-watching experience a lot better for parents and children.

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As reported by Parents, it is crucial to prepare your child for their first theater experience. Talking to them about what to expect, such as the dark movie theater, the big screen, and the crowd, prepares them better for the new experience. The parents are also advised to ask their kids to behave well at the theater, just the way they are expected to be at home or elsewhere. As some kids can become overwhelmed by the loud sound, it's recommended to bring them small earphones to filter the noise.

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You can also bring your snack from home if it isn't against the theatre's policy. Additionally, before the movie begins, ensure your child has received enough physical exercise to burn the pent-up energy. Also, a quick bathroom trip before the movie is always a good idea, especially when you are with kids under five. Lastly, parents can casually talk to their kids about the movie once they are out of the theater, which makes the overall experience more fascinating and memorable.

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Meanwhile, Elizabeth Pantley, author of 'The No-Cry Discipline Solution' and a parenting expert, also shared her thoughts on bringing kids to the movies. She said, “Most toddlers don’t have the desire or patience to sit in one chair throughout a full-length movie. So first ask yourself why you want to take him." If you're more excited than your child to make them watch your favorite movie, it's recommended to hold on to it for a few more years, as they likely wouldn't understand or enjoy it just yet. But if you genuinely feel your child will have fun watching it, you can consider bringing them along, as reported by The Bump.

Pantley urged parents to be mindful of their plans for movies, to be able to have the best experience. She said, “Find a child-designed feature that has characters your child will recognize or find interesting to watch. The storyline isn’t what’s most important in toddlerhood. Lively, fun-to-watch scenes are the best pick." She further added, "Be considerate of other people in the theater. You might find your toddler’s comments or cheers endearing, but other theatergoers may prefer to watch the movie without commentary. So, if your toddler is chattering away, it’s time to head home."