Movies with Kids

Movie Going with Kids Tips

• Be Prepared! Yes, that girl/boy scout motto holds strong when adventuring out with kids, especially, if you are the solo adult. My must haves: Wipes, Water in sealed, non-spilling cups (a plastic baggie containing these ensures no spills and gives you a trash bag if needed), quiet, safe and nutritious snacks (support your theater, buy popcorn and such too), a toy and/or coloring pages and colored pencils for the previews and little ones who loose attention and a blanket (and pacifier, if one is still used). A baby blanket or jacket to wrap up with and get cozy is a wonderful way of making the movie going experience more relaxing. I, also, like to bring a blanket I don't mind getting stickie or dirty, such as our fold away picnic blanket. This gives a designated space for Jackson (2 years old) to play or lay down if needed.
• Look for kid booster seats. Most theaters I have been to have had seats available. Usually, I find a stack down a hall, but asking on your way in ensures a quick find. 
• Where to Sit? I recommend the aisle if the theater is a bit packed for quick potty break exits. 
• Potty Break Before! After picking out your seat, take a load off and take just your valuables and go for a potty break. 
• Strollers? Yes, I have adventured in with a stroller and lugged it up a stair or two. The strollers I have brought sat low enough not to block any viewers, but I would say leave them in the car. When Jackson was around one and napped twice a day, the stroller offered a nice option, but I ended up holding him most times. 
• Flashlight anyone? Almost every time I have taken the kids to the movies, someone has dropped something.. a few times. Binkies (pacifiers), water cups and other important items- like their favorite toy. The sippie cup leash comes to mind, here's a great how to blog post. Other than tethering all items to yourself, I recommend only allowing one item (snack, crayon, toy, etc) and bringing a flashlight (most phones will do the trick too).
• Be Advised. Know that even G rated movies can be scary to a toddler or preschooler. Take time to talk about what you are going to see and discuss the movie afterwards. This give you a chance to answer anything that may have confused the child or been a bit scary. Also, if there was any behavior you want to discourage, after the movie is a great time to discuss why a certain behavior is not appropriate. Check out this Baby Center on when it is ok to take your kids to the movies and such. 

Here is a picture of what I am bringing tomorrow for filed trip to the movies for only one dollar a ticket at our Regal Theater.

• Blanket
• Diapers, Wipes and changing pad
• Hard book (choose one with touch and feel items on each page)
• Toys (from our car toy bin- car (anywhere can become a super highway, ponies with comb and a pop out ball/pet toy) All toys have more than one function of play- thus entertaining for longer.
• Markers and Coloring book (I recommend a smaller coloring book, such as a traveling one found at Walmart and such, with coloring items that don't require tops, but this is all I have with me.)
• Home Aid Trail Mix (click link for ideas)
• Other Heathy and some sweet, not so healthy snacks

ENJOY!