TV, DVD's and movies are a part of many young children's lives. Here are some tips about choosing appropriate viewing for young children.

Most of us enjoy a good film or TV show. Adventure, excitement, humor, drama and useful information may all be part of a viewing experience. More and more, however, scenes of violence, destruction and mayhem are graphically and explicitly depicted in ways that require films to be rated so as to guide appropriate ages for viewing.

Here is some advice about young children and movies:

• Pay attention to those 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 - 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.
• 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 feelings
• 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.
• 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!

Sites that review movies for young children:

http://www.parentpreviews.com/index.php
http://www.dove.org/default.asp
http://www.commonsensemedia.org/
http://www.kidsfirst.org/

Have a good look around these sites and check out movie reviews of movies you already know - this way you will know which site best suits your idea of appropriate viewing.

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