Family Movie Expedition

Throw a family movie night! Choose a DVD from the library for free (yes, free!) and pop your own popcorn. Beats dropping $40 at the movie theater, plus the seats are way more comfy, no one will shush you if you talk, you can fast-forward through any scary parts, and you all get to wear your jammies! What to Pack

• PJs
• Popcorn

Now Get Exploring!

• Find the right movie. Go to NickJr.com's Flicks for Kids for detailed movie reviews and recommended ages for each film.
• Review the ratings. Did you know that a G rating doesn't necessarily denote a children's film? To find out more about the movie industry's ratings system, go to MPAA.org.
• Check out the library. Your local library offers hundreds if not thousands of free DVDs and you can get free advice and recommendations from your librarian.
• Take turns. Give everyone in the family a turn to choose the movie of the night from a group of preselected DVDs. That way, your child still gets to choose, but you will enjoy the night, too.
• Turn off distractions. Put away cell phones and laptops to devote two uninterrupted hours to family time.
• Investigate. After the movie, ask your child these questions:
  • Who did you like best in the film? Why?
  • Who did you like least and why?
  • Where did they live?
  • What was the problem in the movie?
  • How did the characters solve it?
  • Can you name a happy moment in the film? A surprising one?
  • A funny one? A sad one?
  • Did you like the ending?
  • Would you want to watch it again?

Educational Perks Watching a movie together at home encourages family togetherness and conversation. You can answer any questions your child might have about the movie's characters or plot and have a meaningful discussion about any issues raised. Bonus Explorer Activity Boost your child's verbal and storytelling abilities by imagining a different ending to the film. Ask, how else could the characters have solved the problem? If you could insert a new character into the film, who would it be?

For more exploring, play Dora's Great Big World game, find do-together Dora crafts, recipes, and activities, and print a personalized Explorer Kit for your child at DoraTheExplorer.com.

Thanks to Susan Hood

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