An adventure with dad - first trip to the cinema

If you're a movie-buff dad (like me) you probably can't wait to take your little champ to the cinema for the first time. It's such an awesome experience (and relatively cheap compared to many other frills) that going to the cinema has got to be one of the all time favourite "things to do with the family". So what's a good age to take junior to the cinema for the first time? Who knows ... I believe it depends on what interest they are showing to TV/DVDs, how long the film is (and how long they are likely to be entertained by it), the film itself and probably how they are feeling on the day. We took our little 3-year-old to see Shrek 4 the other day ... and it worked a treat. He loved the whole experience, looked really cute in the huge comfy cinema seat and he was eating popcorn pretty much the whole way through. He easily lasted the 90 minutes and was all smiles for the whole time we were there.

A few tips: take plenty of snacks and drinks, as well as wipes and emergency nappies / clothes (yep, that awesome experience can end up with surprise leaks and spills). Pick a film you know they will like (sequels are great especially when they totally love the first part). Be prepared to leave at a moment's notice if it doesn't work out (hey ... you can always get it out on DVD later).

All in all it's just a fantastic activity to do with the kids when they are ready for it! And of course it might save the day as a bad weather option.

Enjoy

-Stef