Kids talking during movies *at home*

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:This is not about in a movie theater ... When I watch a movie (or most tv), I do not want any talking. I am locked in. I like getting absorbed. I think it's a better experience. My 13yo son, however, can't restrain himself. He talks continually. It's always about the movie -- on the plot, on the production, etc. He's reacting to it and thinking about. It drives me absolutely insane, and often I want to yell at him or muzzle him. But then I think that this is how he enjoys the experience. He's teeming with thoughts and feelings. Is it really good to make him suppress that, just because it messes up my enjoyment?

(Again, different rules in a movie theater -- he knows he's not supposed to talk there.)

Does anyone else struggle with this? How do you handle it?

Does your son have adhd? *I would relax a bit with your son. Ask yourself is this how you want to be remembered? You shushing him at home while watching a movie?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:OP here. The responses that said, bsaically, treat the experience as being with him rather than watching a movie -- that seems like the right answer. But also the hardest one for me to actually do.

As for the pause button, it breaks the spell.

I feel you, OP. And I want to say that I see so many people not realizing they are effectively shutting their kid up in situations like this - and the risk you run is shutting him up in general. Consider movie time with your son to be time with your son, and let it unfold how it will. . .pay attention to what he's saying & engage. You have to meet older kids where they are, in what they enjoy. You won't regret it. You can always watch movies on your own in silence to your heart's content when he's not at home.