Should a 9 Year Old Watch Stranger Things? Considerations for Parents
As an avid gaming creator, I get asked often—is it okay for kids to watch the hit Netflix series Stranger Things? With complex themes and scary visuals, it warrants more nuanced advice than a simple yes or no.
The Show‘s Mature Rating Signals Intense Content
Let‘s start by examining Stranger Things’ official rating.
| Series | Rating |
|---|---|
| Stranger Things | TV-14 |
The TV-14 designation signals content is most suitable for viewers 14 and over.
How does this compare to ratings for other popular sci-fi titles?
| Series | Rating |
|---|---|
| Lost | TV-14 |
| The Walking Dead | TV-MA |
While not as graphic as the TV-MA rated The Walking Dead, Stranger Things matches Lost‘s elevated warning for intense imagery, language, violence and themes.
Most child development experts recommend cautiousness about such content for kids under 12-13 years. Parents are wise to heed these insights as guidance.
A Closer Look at Questionable Content Across Seasons
To inform evaluations, let‘s examine examples from the show that families may find objectionable:
Season 1
- Barb‘s bloody death by the Demogorgon
- The monster abducting Will to the Upside Down
- Eleven‘s nosebleeds and mind tricks
Season 2
- Demodogs mauling trapped soldiers
- Teens sneaking into school to ignite a fire
- Rat exploding grotesquely into a mush of flesh
Season 3
- Possessed townspeople gruesomely melting together
- Scantily clad women fawning over Billy
- Russians torturing Hopper using drugs
Season 4
- Fl Flashed ambush multiple victims to feasted buffet
- Teen characters using strong profanity like “f**k”
- Explicit Dungeons & Dragons gameplay references to “human sacrifice”
As you can see, examples run the gamut from subtle innuendos to viscerally shocking scenes. Parents must weigh their own child’s ability to process.
Strategies If You Decide to Allow Viewing
While avoiding the show entirely is safest for ages under 12-13, I understand some mature 9-10 year olds may be granted permission.
If so, experts strongly emphasize co-viewing and discussing difficult content. Consider these tips:
- Preview episodes yourself first to plan conversational guidance
- Pause frequently to define complex themes like grief, trauma, good vs evil
- Clarify fantasy vs reality – explain effects making monsters seem real
- Share your own fears growing up watching scary shows
Monitor their reactions closely for signs of excessive anxiety like trouble sleeping, appetite changes, stomachaches or headaches. Keep a dialogue open about what they find most frightening so you can adjust permissions before issuing trauma.
I hope examining Stranger Things from this compassionate developmental lens helps families determine what feels right. Of course, those who know child best should have final say on appropriateness.
What has your experience been navigating this show’s challenging content with young viewers? I welcome perspectives from my valued reader community.
