Postcards from the Funny Farm

I just did a search on this topic and found nothing satisfactory by way of “how to.” It is really tough going to a movie with my little group since currently they are aged 6 months, 3 years, and 9 years. Still, I’ve made it through movies with all these ages before, and am attempting to get through the Golden Compass tomorrow with all of them! Here’s what I’ll be remembering:
1. Plan ticket purchasing and seating plans in advance (buy online if possible). Small kids are like wind-up timers, the more time you spend on anything besides the movie, the sooner they will get fussy.

2. Bring a bag with lots of snacks for the babies. Also, quiet toys they enjoy are great to have on hand. If the babies take bottles, bring 2 (for each). Now is not the time to say no to yummy candies and treats. Surprising them with “yummies,” as we call them, can keep them occupied for a long time.

3. Accept that one adult will be “on call” to take a kid outside if needed. If a child starts crying and won’t stop, don’t disturb the movie goers more than you already have, just plan to get up and get the details of the movie you missed from your spouse when you return or after.

4. Keep the baby up from its nap before the movie so she/he will be more likely to fall asleep on your shoulder during the movie or while you are taking a walk in the hallway calming the baby down.

5. Get the older toddler interested in a particular aspect of the movie: ie; “Look for the polar bears sweety!” or “can you see the little girl?” Small whispers like these while you stay close to them or hold them on your lap will keep their minds interested and focused and thereby quiet throughout the movie.

6. Finally: Have your bag with snacks and/or the snacks you purchased at the movies (have one parent get these while the other goes and finds seats) right close to you on the floor so when one child acts up you can have them immediately on hand to engage the child. You might also have a stuffed animal handy the child likes.

These are just a few things we have done to get our small children through a movie. I’m hopeful tomorrow will go well. What do you do to get through movies with your small children?