Just because you have a baby doesn’t mean you have to live a streaming-only lifestyle when it comes to movies. Don’t be afraid to go to the theater and catch a new release!
Good etiquette dictates that matinees are the way to go when it comes to small children, but some theaters take it a step further and offer special screenings for parents bringing little ones. Here’s a handy list of local theaters that would never kick you out for crying.
Note: Several theaters seem to have cut back on baby-friendly matinees in favor of sensory-friendly screenings for all ages (including infants). These programs are similarly inclusive and have the same lighting and sound accommodations, but are sometimes for family-friendly movies only. If that’s the case, it will be noted in the descriptions below.
CRYBABY MATINEE @ The Angelika (Dallas, Plano)
For when you want to see a movie, and baby is just along for the ride. Crybaby Matinee screenings are every Tuesday and Wednesday at 1:30pm in Dallas, OR Thursdays at 1:30pm in Plano.
From the theater: Relax and enjoy a film at the Angelika without worrying about unexpected tantrums or feedings in the dark. We keep the lights dimmed, the volume down, and the films coming. Regular matinee admission for adults, and children under 5 get in free.
They even set up a changing table in the auditorium so you don’t have to miss a thing!
MOMMY MONDAYS @ Moviehouse & Eatery (McKinney, Flower Mound)
Every Monday before 2pm. Applies to any movie shown within the timeframe, whether for kids or adults. See link for a handful of excluded dates.
From the theater: Introducing Mommy (and Daddy) Mondays. Every Monday, enjoy a quieter cinema experience with lower volume movies, a brighter auditorium, and $6 tickets before 2 PM.
ALAMO FOR ALL @ Alamo Drafthouse (Dallas, Richardson, Las Colinas, Denton)
Every Tuesday before 2pm. Applies to any movie shown within the timeframe, whether for kids or adults. Schedule may vary during holidays.
From the theater: All shows starting before 2 pm on Tuesdays follow Alamo for All rules, with more shows on the weekends. At sensory-friendly Alamo for All shows:
- Lights are turned up and sound is turned down
- All ages are welcome (including infants)
- Talking and noise is allowed and guests can move around
- Latecomers are admitted
SENSORY FRIENDLY FILMS @ AMC Theaters
2nd and 4th Saturdays (family-friendly only) and Tuesday evenings (mature audiences).
From the theater: ...we screen the latest releases in a sensory-friendly environment that’s a little quieter and a little brighter. Getting up to dance, walk, shout and sing is all part of the experience.
CAMP CINEMARK @ Cinemark Allen 16 (Allen)
This is simply a dedicated kid-friendly space to watch family-friendly movies. It’s a camp-themed auditorium with string lights, bean bag chairs, squishy armchairs and recliner seats, plus a coloring zone just outside the theater with touch-screen coloring wall and regular coloring materials. Kids need an adult chaperone and vice versa. Theater showtimes HERE, just look for the “Camp Cinemark” designation.
SENSORY SENSITIVE CINEMA @ LOOK Cinemas (Dallas)
** Program to resume Summer 2019 so be sure to check back** Tuesday and Saturday at 9am. Family-friendly movies only.
From the theater: Light and sound levels will be adjusted to a degree comfortable for those with sensory sensitivity. Kids are welcome to move about the theatre and watch the movie in the way that makes them most comfortable.
Taking an infant to the movies is not as scary as you might think, and I encourage everyone to give it a try! Toddlers, on the other hand, can be a little more challenging. If you’re apprehensive about it, check out these Five Tips For Your Toddler’s First Movie Experience.
