Prior to my kids being born, I was a frequent movie-goer and always saw the latest flicks. Nowadays, I’m lucky if I recognize one of the movies up for an Academy Award. Chances are, if you have small children you’re in the same boat. The movies I see these days have talking animals or vehicles or end in ‘happily ever after.’ Thankfully, you can still go to the movies now without having to hire a sitter and plan weeks ahead. Go to a Mom’s Movie, where you’re encouraged to bring your children!
Intrigued? Mom’s Movies are a mom’s best friend, especially on rainy days, when you’re stuck in a rut, or if there’s a movie you really want to see but just can’t get to at any other time. Select theaters open their doors in the morning and for a matinee fee (typically) offer you the opportunity see current films. The lights are dimmed but not completely darkened and the sound is reduced to keep from frightening little ones. Attend one of these movies and you will see moms rocking babies in their arms in the aisles or toddlers playing quietly with toys. The best part is that no one looks twice if your kid starts to cry – he won’t be the only one!
Of course there are some things to consider when going to a Mom’s Movie. In my experience, attending one is much easier when you have an infant. Once your kiddo becomes mobile, you will spend more time watching him crawl everywhere and prying random Raisinets from his hand and will leave wondering what the movie was about. The typical cut-off age is 5 years, so feel free to bring your toddler but be sure to bring plenty of items to occupy him as well! It’s also wise to have an idea of what the film is about ahead of time. No need to bring your little one to a viewing of ‘Kill Bill,’ right?
There are three theaters on the Eastside that offer movies for mom (if you know of more, let us know!). Here is the essential info:
Bellevue – Lincoln Square Cinemas
Mother’s Day at the Movies every Thursday offers select movies at 10am. The cost is $7.75 and kids 5 and under are free. Check their website to see which movies you can choose from each week.
Kirkland – Park Place Cinema
Baby’s Day at the Movies happens two Friday mornings per month, so check their website for the next date. The cost is $7 per adult, kids 2 and under are free, older kids are $6.50 each. You can see any movie of your choice here.
North Bend – North Bend Theater
Mommy Matinee begins at 10am every Wednesday morning with a select movie. Check their website to find out which movie is playing each week. The cost is $5 for everyone 3 and up.