Is ‘Stranger Things’ Too Scary for Your Tween? A Guide for Parents

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Your tween or teen is probably clamoring to watch Stranger Things—and who can blame them? The show has catapulted a new generation of young actors into the spotlight, and its focus on kids their age makes it particularly appealing. But just because it centers around young characters, does that mean it won’t be frightening for a 12-year-old? Not necessarily.

So, is Stranger Things genuinely scary? That depends on who you ask. If you’re on the fence about whether this series is appropriate for your child, we’ve done some digging to help you make an informed decision about whether your adolescent is ready to explore Hawkins, Indiana, and face off against creatures like Demogorgons.

Every child is unique. Even siblings or friends might have differing tolerances for spooky content. What may be suitable for one tween could be entirely inappropriate for another. I have friends who love the show, while I personally can’t handle the tension.

What’s Stranger Things About?

In case you’ve somehow missed the buzz, here’s a brief overview: When a young boy goes missing in the small town of Hawkins in 1983, his friends and family are thrown into chaos as they search for him. As they dig deeper, they unearth an alternate dimension known as The Upside Down, face off against terrifying creatures, and navigate the complexities of adolescence. It’s a blend of thrilling sci-fi and relatable teenage experiences.

What’s the Age Rating for Stranger Things?

Netflix rates Stranger Things as TV-14, indicating that it’s not suitable for viewers under 14. However, ratings can be subjective. Common Sense Media suggests it’s appropriate for ages 12 and up, though many parents have allowed younger children to watch it. For instance, I know two brave 10- and 11-year-olds who are obsessed with the show.

Is Stranger Things Scary?

While the series is rich in storytelling, it doesn’t shy away from gore and unsettling themes. Expect blood, violence, and scenes featuring young characters in precarious situations. The visuals, especially the Demogorgons, can be genuinely frightening.

There are also other mature elements to consider, such as implied sexual references, profanity, and risky teen behavior. These aren’t necessarily “scary,” but they warrant attention when deciding if it’s suitable for your child.

Jump Scares in Stranger Things

While primarily a character-driven narrative, Stranger Things does have its fair share of jump scares. Here are a few notable ones:

  • Season 1, Episode 1: A panicked man bursts through a door.
  • Season 1, Episode 2: A sudden screech interrupts a quiet moment.

How to Decide if Your Kid Can Handle It

The best way to gauge your child’s readiness is to watch the series yourself. You know your child’s media consumption best. Consider their past reactions to thrillers or horror stories. If they’ve coped well with similar content, they might be ready for Stranger Things.

Ultimately, letting them watch is unlikely to have severe consequences. According to Psychology Today, while there can be minor negative effects, they are usually fleeting.

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Summary

Stranger Things can be a captivating yet potentially scary option for tweens and teens. As every child is different, parents should assess their kid’s maturity and past experiences with scary content before deciding if the show is a good fit.

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