By: Viraj Shah

Going to see a musical is a magical experience. Whether it’s a local production or a full-on Broadway extravaganza, musicals have a unique magic that books and movies can’t recreate. Everyone should experience one at least once, including children.

However, finding family-friendly musicals your child can watch can be daunting. Like other kinds of entertainment, some of what’s available is family-friendly, and some of it isn’t. But if you want to share the magic of a musical with your child, we’ve compiled some tips for finding ones your child can enjoy below.

Look for Familiar Stories

If your child doesn’t see the appeal of going to a musical when movies and streaming services are “right there,” a good idea for their first musical is an adaptation of a story they’re familiar with, such as a Disney movie they might be a fan of.

You can tout this adaptation of a new way to experience the story they love. Children love seeing more of their favorite characters; seeing them be “real” will be a mesmerizing experience. In addition, musicals or family movies are a safe bet regarding content and age-appropriateness.

Read Guides and Discussions

Another good way to find out if a nearby musical will be appropriate for children is to read up on it or ask those who’ve seen its previous productions. Explain your child’s age and, if they have it, prior experience with musicals. You’ll get opinions from other viewers on whether it’d be all right for your child.

Talking to other arts-focused families can also give you recommendations on productions to seek. If you can’t strike up a discussion with them due to scheduling issues or lack of contact methods, look up blogs from parents who regularly see musicals with their children.

Don’t Underestimate Their Age

This may sound counterproductive, but sometimes, letting your child see something slightly outside their age range can pay huge dividends. That doesn’t necessarily mean take them along on a musical you were saving for date night. Rather, if you think your child is old and mature enough to handle more complex subject matter or slightly darker themes, factor that into your search.

In fact, it would serve you and your child better to skew your search slightly older; unless your child is very young, taking them to something overly safe can frustrate and embarrass them. You’d be surprised at what children can emotionally process if given the chance.

Get the Family On It

An excellent way to find musicals for your kids is to make it a family outing. Having the whole family looking for a musical can make finding one a little less complicated and time-consuming. In addition, spending time with the entire family will be exciting for your child!

Have discussions with your family members about what shows seem interesting to everyone and what kind of content they contain so you can choose something that’s age-appropriate yet engaging for you and the other grown members of the family.

There are plenty of enchanting musicals your child can enjoy if you’re willing to do some research to find them. In addition, make sure your child understands musical etiquette and pay attention to any musical showtime so you don’t throw off your child’s sleep schedule.

Published by: Holy Minoza