Many of the big theater releases these days are in IMAX, 3D or an IMAX/3D combo. Seeing a movie on the extra-big screen or in 3D can be a big thrill for kids, but just because a little guy or gal can sit through a kids' movie in a regular theater doesn't necessarily mean they are ready for IMAX or 3D. Trial and error can be pricey, so how can you know if your kids are ready for the full theater experience?
When it comes to deciding whether to 3D or not to 3D, there is some official data out there to advise parents. According to the American Optometric Association, most kids have developed enough binocular vision (using both eyes together to see something) by agethree to be able to enjoy a 3D movie. There isn't any risk to their eyesight if kids see a movie in 3D before that age, but they probably won't be able to see it properly. However, being physically capable of seeing something in 3D and having the patience to wear 3D glasses for 60-120 minutes are two VERY different things.
One easy way to tell if your young movie fan is up for the 3D upgrade is to see how he handles sunglasses. My preschooler refuses to wear sunglasses even in the brightest sunlight, so I haven't even attempted a 3D movie with him yet. On the other hand, my 18-month-old daughter already loves putting on play glasses, so I have a feeling she'll be up for the 3D experience earlier than her big brother. For kids agesfive and up, it's worth having a discussion to explain why the glasses are needed for this type of movie and see their reaction when you explain that the picture will look fuzzy if they don't wear the glasses for the entire movie.
IMAX is a whole other story. Many kids won't react any differently to an IMAX movie than a regular one, but some might be frightened by thesupersized screen. It's not wise to have your child's first movie be in an IMAX theater, but if she's handled multiple showings in a regular theater without being startled, she's probably ready for the larger-than-life experience. In addition, those particularly prone to motion sickness might feel a bit queasy during an IMAX showing (3D movies can trigger motion sickness in those who are sensitive as well).
Many theaters offer free or low-cost family movies at certain points throughout the year, so contact your local theater to see if any of these showings will be in IMAX. My son's first experience with IMAX was at a $1 showing of Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa and I couldn't tell if he even noticed that the screen was bigger. It was great only paying a couple of dollars to find that out, though, instead of paying $20 or more to possibly end up in the lobby.
Ultimately, kids are unpredictable. One child might be totally ready for the full 3D IMAX experience at agethree while others might need several more years. As a parent you ultimately know your kid best. Just remember to be patient and sit near an exit.
FAQs
When it comes to deciding whether to 3D or not to 3D, there is some official data out there to advise parents. According to the American Optometric Association, most kids have developed enough binocular vision (using both eyes together to see something) by age three to be able to enjoy a 3D movie.
Is IMAX 3D good for kids? ›
There's no evidence that watching something in 3D damages a child's vision. In fact, watching 3D media is pretty much the same as watching something in real life. That's why the American Academy of Ophthalmology says watching something in 3D is unlikely to harm your child's eyes.
Is IMAX too much for kids? ›
The large scale of the IMAX experience and the duration of films are likely to overstimulate and unsettle babies and small children. For this reason, we strongly recommend that children aged 5 and under do not attend screenings of films designed for adult audiences.
How old should kids be to watch 3D movies? ›
This is because the binocular function is not fully developed until the age of 6. Therefore, some doctors specializing in amblyopia and strabismus recommend that children under 6 years of age refrain from viewing 3D images.
Does IMAX 3D need glasses? ›
RealD 3D and Imax Digital 3D both utilize passive 3D technology which makes use of relatively lightweight eyewear. These passive 3D glasses use polarizing filters to allow each eye to see a slightly different image.
Is 3D OK for 5 year old? ›
As a safety precaution, children under six years of age should have limited exposure to 3D films, video games and televisions. The American Optometric Association says that moderation of children's exposure to 3D viewing is just as important as limiting their exposure to 2D and other technical devices.
Are 3D movies safe for children's eyes? ›
Is 3-D technology healthy for your or your children's eyes? Although there are no long-term studies, ophthalmologists say there is no reason to be concerned that 3-D movies, TV or video games will damage the eyes or visual system.
Is it OK to take a 3 year old to the cinema? ›
You're never too young for the magic of film and most of our cinemas welcome babies for titles rated U, PG and 12A. But please spare a thought for our other guests – if your baby grows unsettled, step outside for a moment until they've calmed down. We also recommend checking out our ODEON Newbies screenings.
Is there a bad seat at IMAX? ›
That answer depends on the nature of the room and your preferences. As we've established, the front row of an IMAX isn't great due to the giant screen. You'll be craning your neck and looking left and right to get everything in – it's not comfortable. Some go to the other extreme and go for the back row.
What if my child can't see in 3D? ›
If a child doesn't see the 3D effect, or experiences dizziness, headaches or visual discomfort - it's time to visit your optometrist, at your local opticians.
There's no evidence that viewing too much time wearing 3D glasses causes any long-term eye problems, but it may be uncomfortable in the short-term. The solution for most children and adults with vision issues is to view 3D content sparingly, take frequent breaks, and sit farther away from the screen.
What age is safe for 3D? ›
Ages 6-12
With close parental supervision, most elementary to middle school-aged children can safely be in the same room while a 3D printer operates using suggested protective measures. This exposure allows learning without hands-on risks. Kids this age can start to understand 3D modeling software.
What does a 3D movie look like without glasses? ›
The two parts of a 3D signal that reach your eyes require the use of either Active Shutter or Passive Polarized Glasses to see the result. When such images are viewed without 3D glasses, you see two overlapping images that look slightly out of focus.
How does 3D work for kids? ›
The left and right lenses of your 3D glasses are different and can only see 1 of the 2 images on the screen. This means that your brain gets 2 separate images just like when you look at something in real life. It's the difference between these 2 images that makes it look like it has depth.
What was the first 3D kids movie? ›
Veggie Tales, out in 1993, marked the first fully 3D animated series. Not long ago, the iconic Toy Story came along, as the first fully 3D, computer-animated feature-length film. The success of the innovative Toy Story, both critically and commercially, placed it firmly into the limelight.
Is IMAX 3D good or bad? ›
IMAX 3D technology provides a number of benefits over traditional 3D movies. For example, IMAX 3D movies have a higher resolution and image quality, and the IMAX screens are much larger than standard movie screens.
Can kids with glasses watch 3D movies? ›
Conclusion. Wearing eyeglasses can make it more difficult to enjoy the 3D movie or a TV show, but it's not impossible. For those who wear glasses, we have listed many choices. Watching 3D movies is possible even if you have to wear eyeglasses.
Which is better 3D or IMAX 3D? ›
However, not all 3D movies are created equal, and some can be more gimmicky than effective. IMAX, on the other hand, offers a more consistent experience. Because of the larger screen and higher resolution, IMAX movies are always impressive and can make you feel like you're right in the middle of the action.
