Have you ever taken a child to what was advertised as a children’s movie only to find your self very uncomfortable? Ever turned on the television to watch a “family show” only to find yourself distracting your kids so they won’t see or hear something? Or maybe your tween son wants a particular game. Perhaps your daughter wants to Netflix a popular movie at her sleepover. You may even have a child who reads so many books you long ago gave up trying to know what your child reads and just pray it isn’t anything too bad.
My absolute favorite website when our daughter was young was PluggedIn. They give reviews of movies, television shows, music, games and books your kids and teens may want to experience or own. What I love the most about their reviews is that they give you detailed information. Then you can make the call based on the age of your child and what is important to you. While they do reach a conclusion, they give you enough information that you can make an educated decision if you want to allow your child to be exposed to that particular piece of media anyway.
They also do a great job of telling you what non-Christian philosophies are promoted as well as the specifics of questionable or ungodly behavior. (For example instead of just saying language, they break it down by curse words, taking God’s name in vain, etc.) Sometimes we as parents may not want to expose our kids to certain behaviors because of their age or temperament (a child who is easily frightened for example.). The breakdowns really help you decide if what may be a great film for every other child, still may not be the best for your particular child.
The site is free to use, so the next time you want to check out a movie, tv show, music, game or book, give it a try. I think you will quickly find it becomes an important resource in your Christian parenting toolkit.