How Old Should You Be to Watch Stranger Things?
Stranger Things, a popular Netflix original series, has gained a massive following worldwide, especially among the younger generation. The show’s nostalgic value, engaging storyline, and memorable characters have made it a favorite among both children and adults. However, the show’s content is not suitable for all ages, and parents need to exercise caution when deciding whether their child is ready to watch it.
Age Recommendations
The age recommendations for Stranger Things vary depending on the country and region. Here are some general guidelines:
- Netflix’s Official Recommendation: Netflix recommends Stranger Things for viewers aged 14 and above. However, the show’s content is not suitable for children under 14 due to mature themes, violence, and some suggestive content.
- Common Sense Media: Common Sense Media, a non-profit organization that provides age-appropriate content recommendations, recommends Stranger Things for viewers aged 10 and above. However, they note that the show’s content may be too intense for younger viewers.
- IMDB: IMDB, a popular online database of movies and TV shows, recommends Stranger Things for viewers aged 13 and above.
Significant Content to Watch Out For
While Stranger Things is a great show, it does contain some significant content that parents should be aware of:
- Mature Themes: Stranger Things deals with mature themes such as child abduction, murder, and abuse. These themes can be disturbing and may not be suitable for younger viewers.
- Violence: The show features intense violence, including gunfire, beating, and physical altercations. These scenes can be frightening and may not be suitable for younger viewers.
- Suggestive Content: Stranger Things contains some suggestive content, including nudity, sex, and profanity. These elements may not be suitable for younger viewers.
- Emotional Intensity: The show’s emotional intensity can be overwhelming, especially for younger viewers. The characters’ experiences with trauma, loss, and grief can be distressing.
Why Children Should Not Watch Stranger Things
While Stranger Things may seem like a great show for children, there are several reasons why parents should exercise caution:
- Lack of Parental Guidance: The show’s creators, the Duffer Brothers, have stated that they do not provide explicit guidance or warnings for the show’s content. This lack of parental guidance can make it difficult for parents to determine whether their child is ready to watch the show.
- Mature Themes: The show’s mature themes, including child abduction and murder, can be disturbing and may not be suitable for younger viewers.
- Violence and Intensity: The show’s intense violence and emotional intensity can be overwhelming for younger viewers.
Alternatives for Children
If you’re looking for a show that is similar to Stranger Things but is more suitable for children, here are some alternatives:
- The Haunting of Hill House: This Netflix series is a horror show that follows a family’s experiences in a haunted house. It deals with mature themes, but is more suitable for older children and teenagers.
- The Goldbergs: This family sitcom is set in the 1980s and follows the lives of a family in the 1980s. It is a more lighthearted show that is suitable for older children and teenagers.
- The Magic School Bus: This educational series follows a class of students as they travel through science and history. It is a more lighthearted show that is suitable for older children and teenagers.
Conclusion
While Stranger Things is a great show, it is not suitable for all ages. Parents need to exercise caution when deciding whether their child is ready to watch the show. The show’s mature themes, violence, and suggestive content make it difficult for younger viewers. If you’re looking for a show that is similar to Stranger Things but is more suitable for children, there are many alternatives available.
Recommendations for Parents
If you’re considering watching Stranger Things with your child, here are some recommendations:
- Watch the Show with Your Child: Watching the show with your child can help you gauge their reaction and determine whether they are ready to watch it.
- Use Parental Guidance: Use parental guidance to determine whether your child is ready to watch the show. You can use online resources, such as Common Sense Media, to find more information about the show’s content.
- Set Boundaries: Set boundaries for your child’s viewing time and ensure that they are not watching the show unsupervised.
By following these recommendations, you can help ensure that your child is prepared for the show’s content and can enjoy it in a safe and responsible manner.