One of the great things about our kids getting older is the ability to watch movies and shows that we actually want to see too. (No offense, Bubble Guppies.) But it’s also tough to figure out what they’re emotionally ready for, what’s over their heads, and what scenes may stress them out in ways we hadn’t considered.

Hey, even Kristen isn’t ready for Stranger Things!

So take a listen to this week’s candid, honest, and really fun discussion on Spawned with Kristen + Liz for answers to questions you may be having, or will soon enough. Some of the issues we discuss:

-How have movies changed over the years in terms of graphic violence?
-What is the “ratings creep?”
-What issues you should factor in besides violence, strong language and sex.
-Why we’re okay with f-bombs. (And if you’re not…that’s okay, too.)
-How the educational value of movies like Selma or Dunkirk may outweigh other factors.
(Top photo: Dunkirk, Warner Bros. Pictures) 
-Which shows we stopped watching in the middle because…uh, no.
-Why it’s important to respect our sensitive kids’ boundaries, whatever their ages.
-From Grease to Goonies to Breakfast at Tiffany’s: How nostalgia for our own childhood favorites can cloud our judgment about what’s okay for our kids today.

Listen right here, right now! And don’t forget to subscribe Spawned with Kristen + Liz on iTunes or your favorite podcasting app.

If you have questions, comments, your own advice, future show ideas, or just random heaps of praise (but no pressure!) find us on Twitter, Facebook, or email us at spawned@mompicksprod.wpengine.com. We love hearing from you, and thanks for listening!

Related: Should your kids be watching 13 Reasons Why?

This Week’s Sponsor: Learn with Homer

Homer is the awesome learn to read app for kids that we have recommended for years on Cool Mom Tech, because it’s such an effective way to help kids 2 to 8 learn to read by tapping into their own interests to motivate them.

They’ve built custom reading pathways around your own child’s interests, with personalized lessons and activities to get them even more excited to read every day. A recent study conducted by the former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Education concluded that just 15 minutes a day with Homer can increase early reading scores by 74%. So it’s not only fun, it’s incredibly effective.

Special offer for Spawned listeners:
Sign up for Homer right now through this link and get one month free! 

Cool Picks of the Week

Liz: A Color Story App is a terrific photo editing and filter app. Big h/t to Jill Krause for the reco!

Kristen: The Irish Bat video that blew up the Internet. Warning: You may need an inhaler when you’re through laughing!