Movies often get a bad rap, but under the right circumstances they have a constructive influence on children’s lives. Movies encourage children to hone their imaginations. They provide children the opportunity to develop language skills and promote socialization and family interaction.
Parental Awareness
Knowing what movies are appropriate for children is a parent's responsibility. For a positive viewing experience, familiarity with the movie ratings system is a must.
Socialization
Movies encourage group interaction. Learning to function in a group setting is imperative to a child’s growth.
Educational
Movies introduce children to cultures, historical events and stories with which they are unfamiliar. Movies used in classrooms enhance learning.
Entertainment
Movies are enjoyable for children of all ages. They stimulate children’s emotions, imaginations and conversations.
Family Time
Grab some popcorn and rent a movie that is appropriate for everyone. Family movie night is a fun activity that brings families together for fun and bonding. Also, according to the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) of America website, talking about movies gives a parent a jump start on having difficult conversations with children.
Warning
According to the About Kid’s Health website, watching violent movies can result in bedtime fears, recurrent nightmares, flashbacks, disruption of concentration and a fearful view of the world.
References
Writer Bio
Jan Czech has been writing professionally since 1993. Czech has published seven children's books, including “The Coffee Can Kid," which received a starred review from School Library Journal. She is a certified English/language arts teacher and holds a Bachelor of Arts in education from Niagara University.
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