by Karen I Livingston

Created on: February 24, 2009

I can't believe we're even asking this! Why on earth would a parent consider bringing a baby to a movie theater? The first bone of contention that I would have with an advocate of this practice is the decibels which they are subjecting their child to. Movies often peek beyond the safe 85 decibel level. High energy soundtracks that send waves of sonic stimuli are matched to the drama of a movie. This is meant to achieve an intense visual and mental experience. Movie makers are continually vying for this level of intensity at the expense of the audience (now here's a topic that has greatly impacted society). Hearing experts agree that long or repeated exposure to such levels could damage hearing. This of course applies to everyone, and though the experts are divided as to whether or not a baby's hearing is more sensitive than adults, I believe it is in the best interest of the child to consider the more cautious side and act accordingly. My question to parents is this: "Do you have the right to risk the hearing of your child in the name of entertainment for your own personal satisfaction?"

My next point would be based on the age of the child. As a mother of four, my opinion is that a child graduates from baby to toddler when they become mobile of their own accord; rolling, crawling, walking and before you know it, they've entered the brief stage of toddlerhood. Up to this point, the baby is reliant on the parent for mobility. For many babies, this is something they crave no matter where they are. They are oblivious to the fact that this is not always a desirable practice. Such places as church, a restaurant and yes, the movie theater, are full of people who are not favorably impacted by this practice of mobility on behalf of the parent in order to make the baby content.

Lastly, and from my own observation of parent and baby, I have come to the conclusion that many a parent disregards the unwritten rule of courtesy to others that states, "When your baby is crying, leave." I have witnessed numerous parents in numerous venues breaking this rule of courtesy numerous times. It is a childish decision on the part of the parent to not leave with baby in order to restore decorum to the environment. But wait; maybe I missed the bus somewhere? Perhaps decorum has taken on a new look in this present day; a more selfish bent in which few are willing to uphold the rules of courtesy toward their neighbor.

The truth is, a parent is responsible for the safety and well being of their child. Decisions that a parent makes regarding their children should be founded on this premise. Though our culture screams from every side, "Do what's best for YOU!" as a parent you were commissioned to behave contrary to this popular axiom when you became a parent. You must do what is best for your child. And, although you may never again in your life see that person sitting behind you in the movie theater, you do owe them courtesy. I believe there shouldn't be a moment's hesitation on the part of a parent to the question of taking your baby to the movie theater. Absolutely not.

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