A Parent's Guide to Fright-fully Entertaining (but Not Too Scary) Movies for Kids

Introduction

Family movie nights are a great way to bond and create lasting memories. But when it comes to picking a movie for kids, the line between "spooky" and "terrifying" can be a fine one. To help parents navigate this tricky terrain, we've compiled a list of kid-friendly scary movies that will provide just the right amount of thrills and chills.

Kid-Friendly Scary Movies

1. Coraline (2009)

• MPAA Rating: PG
• Synopsis: A young girl discovers a secret door that leads to an alternate world where everything is a little bit... off.

2. ParaNorman (2012)

• MPAA Rating: PG
• Synopsis: A misunderstood boy with the ability to talk to ghosts must save his town from a zombie invasion.

3. Goosebumps (2015)

• MPAA Rating: PG
• Synopsis: A group of friends accidentally releases monsters from the pages of a horror novel.

4. The Boxtrolls (2014)

• MPAA Rating: PG
• Synopsis: An orphan boy raised by underground trolls must protect his newfound family from an evil exterminator.

5. Monster House (2006)

• MPAA Rating: PG
• Synopsis: A group of kids discovers a haunted house that seems to have a life of its own.

Choosing the Right Scary Movie for Your Child

Consider Your Child's Age and Maturity Level:

• Preschoolers and young elementary schoolers may be better suited for movies with a more whimsical or comedic tone.
• Older kids and tweens can handle more suspenseful and thrilling stories.

Check the MPAA Rating:

• The Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) assigns ratings to movies based on their content.
• For scary movies, the PG rating is typically the most appropriate for kids.

Read Reviews and Watch Trailers:

• Get an idea of the movie's tone and plot before you let your child watch it.
• Look for reviews that mention how scary the movie is and if it's suitable for children.

Talk to Your Child:

• Ask your child if they're interested in watching a scary movie.
• Explain that the movie might have some scary parts, but that you'll be there to comfort them if needed.

Tips for Making Movie Night Spook-tacularly Fun

Set the Mood:

• Dim the lights and turn up the volume.
• Light a few candles (electric ones are safer for kids).
• Serve spooky snacks like popcorn balls or candy corn.

Create a Cozy Atmosphere:

• Let your kids snuggle up on the couch with blankets and pillows.
• Build a fort or set up a tent for a more immersive experience.

Provide Comfort and Support:

• Let your child know that it's okay to be scared.
• Reassure them that the movie isn't real and that you're there to protect them.
• If they need to take a break or skip a particularly scary scene, don't judge them.

Common Questions About Scary Movies for Kids

Q: Are scary movies really bad for kids?

A: Not necessarily. In fact, some studies suggest that scary movies can help children develop coping mechanisms for dealing with fear and anxiety. However, it's important to choose movies that are age-appropriate and not too graphic or disturbing.

Q: What if my child is too scared after watching a scary movie?

A: Talk to your child about their fears and help them understand that the movie was just a story. Reassure them that they're safe and that you're there to protect them. If necessary, consider watching a calming movie or reading a comforting book together.

Q: Can I let my child watch PG-13 scary movies?

A: It really depends on your child's maturity level. Some PG-13 movies may be too intense or frightening for younger kids. It's always a good idea to check reviews and watch the movie yourself before deciding if it's appropriate.

Conclusion

Finding the right scary movie for your kid can be a daunting task, but it's definitely possible. By following these tips and recommendations, you can create a fun and memorable family movie night that's just the right amount of spooky and silly.

Tables

Table 1: MPAA Ratings for Scary Movies

Table 2: Kid-Friendly Scary Movies by Age Range

Table 3: Tips for Making Movie Night Spook-tacularly Fun