KidsofftheCouch.com
Fun movie-themed activities for families.
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Seen the site?
details
- URL: http://www.kidsoffthecouch.com
- Entertainment Value: High
Parents need to know
Parents need to know that this activity site -- which pairs kid-friendly movies with kid-friendly things to do -- is most helpful for big-city dwellers, since it gives specific recommendations for outings in the country's major metro areas. But you can tailor most of the activities to your own town (for example, after watching Bend It Like Beckham, head out for some Indian samosas). Any red flags in the featured movies are mentioned -- if there's a racy romance scene, for instance, or if kids will be scared by the movie's message.
Families can talk about managing media. Why is it a good idea to balance movie and TV time with "real life" activities? Which is more fun -- watching kids run through the woodsy world in Bridge to Terabithia, or doing it yourself on a local trail? Why?
Families can talk about managing media. Why is it a good idea to balance movie and TV time with "real life" activities? Which is more fun -- watching kids run through the woodsy world in Bridge to Terabithia, or doing it yourself on a local trail? Why?
Message
Social Behavior:
Encourages kids and parents to have fun exploring their community together.
Consumerism:
There are links to rent or buy the movies featured on the site, as well as to featured locations (restaurants, museums, etc.), but the site doesn't allow movies or locations to pay to be included in its recommendations. KOTC sweatshirts, mugs, hats, etc. can be purchased in site's online store. The site runs banner ads that are relevant to the target audience (parenting sites, the Getty Center, etc.).
Drugs/Alcohol/Tobacco:
Educational Value:
Recommends practical resources to help families dig into movies' "Cultural Connections" and relate them to community activities.
Violence
Sex
Language
Common Sense says
What's the story?
Reviewed by Dana Villamagna
If you can't beat 'em, join 'em...on the couch, that is. KIDSOFFTHECOUCH.COM took that folk wisdom and turned it into a site that encourages families to explore their communities by pairing kid-friendly movies with similarly themed outdoor activities. Just watched The Greatest Game Ever Played? Hit the local golf course. Made it through Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory? Beeline for your local chocolate shop.
Is it any good?
In addition to activity ideas, you'll also find helpful info about each movie (why it's worth it, who'll be interested), handy discussion questions, and other site, book, and movie "Cultural Connection" ideas. Links on the site also let families rent or buy the featured movies and visit recommended locations, from restaurants to museums.
Nuts and bolts
- Playability: Easy
- Reading Required: Medium
- Graphics: Photos, cartoons
Other choices
Parents and kids say
All Reviews
There are 2 reviews.
Age 5+
Posted on 03/06/08 by Anonymous Adult contributor
Adult Reviews
There are 2 reviews.
Age 5+
Posted on 03/06/08 by Anonymous Adult contributor
Kids Reviews
There are 0 reviews.
There are no kids reviews.
What do your kids do online?
Surf
34%
Homework and research
19%
Download music
10%
Chat with friends
37%
132 votes