Crashing the Party: Knowing When It’s OK to Bring the Kids

There are many instances when bringing your child to the movie theater is perfectly appropriate and even encouraged—for instance G-rated or PG-rated movies geared for kids.

At these showings, which are most often during the day, minor disruptions are usually excused. Yet you should still be considerate of the other parents and kids around you. If your child starts crying loudly or misbehaves repeatedly, take him outside into the hallway until he calms down.

How about catching a matinee with your young baby in tow? Rickenbacher gives this the green light. "Matinees are perfect for taking your baby—if he wakes up and fusses, just take him outside and then come back in when he's settled," she says.

Some movie theaters have special showings once a week just for moms with young children. If your local theater doesn't offer a similar program, why not rally some fellow parents and consider asking the manager if a moms' movie can be added to the theater's weekly schedule? That way, you can enjoy a movie guilt-free, with fussing allowed!