bookmark it: CommonSenseMedia.org

Thinking about seeing a movie this weekend? Us, too! But before we sit down with the kiddos to see what is playing, I will visit the Common Sense Media website first and do a little quick research. 

This website was recommended to me a few years back by a librarian (they always know about all of the good stuff!) and it has been a TREMENDOUS resource to me as a mama of two boys navigating through the tricky waters of movies, shows, apps, books and every other kind of media (digital and otherwise) heading our way these days. (To read more about CSM and their mission, click here.)

When it comes to reviews, CSM gives a quick snippet at the top ("Predictable alien adventure is violent and forgettable." Sounds like a good one to skip.), detailed descriptions of the movie (and apps, books, etc.), user reviews, as well as my favorite: a REAL AGE recommendation. As you probably know, just because a movie is rated PG it does not mean it is for everybody. And you know your kiddos best. While they may be fine watching all six Star Wars movies, they might get totally freaked out by anything that involves purple aliens or Halloween or whatever! My 7-year old could watch Star Wars until the cows come home but don't even mention the words "Toy Story 3" in front of him or he will run screaming from the room. Don't get me started.

CSM is great for parents of little ones, kiddos, tweens and teens! And I HIGHLY recommend subscribing to their newsletter. Great way to find out about the latest apps for your kiddos, book recommendations by age group, and SO much more. It is one of the few subscriptions I have actually held on to over the years. I feel like I am barely scratching the surface on all of the goodness you will discover on CSM but I know you will have fun browsing around.

Enjoy and good luck out there! xo