Quick Answer
PG (Parental Guidance) rated movies and TV shows may contain some content that parents find unsuitable for younger children under the age of 8, including mild language, some violence and scary moments. Many child development experts recommend exercising caution and using judgement when deciding if a 6 year old can handle PG content, as each child matures differently. While some 6 year olds may be fine with mild PG content, parents should preview material first to determine if it is appropriate for their individual child.
Should 6 Year Olds Watch PG Movies and TV Shows?
The PG or Parental Guidance rating was introduced by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) in the 1970s to alert parents that certain movies may contain content unsuitable for young children. PG movies may have some profanity, violence, brief nudity and other content that parents might consider too mature for kids under 10 years old. Here are some guidelines for PG content and 6 year olds:
Language
PG movies may have some mild profanity like “damn”, “hell” or “ass”. There may be a few stronger curse words like “shit” but these are infrequent. The language in PG films is milder than the stronger swearing and frequent profanity found in PG-13 or R rated movies. Most 6 year olds have likely already heard some light profanity words but parents may still prefer to limit exposure.
Violence
There may be sword fighting, explosions, supernatural threats or some blood in PG rated films, but the violence level is not extreme or graphic. Some action violence like characters getting punched or brief gun violence may occur but is not prolongued. Violence has minimal gory details. Parents should preview any battle or fight scenes to decide if they are appropriate for their 6 year old to see.
Nudity and Sex
PG movies may have some brief or partial nudity. This could include men bare chested, glimpses of a woman’s breasts or buttocks, or characters in their underwear. However, there will not be extensive or full frontal nudity. Sexual content is minimal, with perhaps some kissing or flirting and innuendo that goes over kids’ heads. There are no graphic sex scenes.
Scary/Intense Content
There may be some intense sequences or frightening moments in PG films that could upset more sensitive 6 year olds. This includes scary creatures, monsters, dangerous situations, high suspense and threat of harm to characters. Parents should preview to see if certain scenes might be too much for their child to handle.
Themes
Some complex or mature themes are explored in PG movies and shows. This includes topics like death of loved ones, divorce, mild discrimination and injustice. However, these themes are handled in an age appropriate way. Parents should discuss any confusing or upsetting concepts with a 6 year old after watching.
Factors to Consider for Your 6 Year Old
Every child matures differently, so some 6 year olds may be ready for PG content while others may get frightened or upset. Here are some factors for parents to consider:
Emotional Maturity
Does your 6 year old tend to get very distressed or anxious by scary or intense imagery and situations? Do they have trouble separating fantasy from reality on screen? If so, even PG level frights could be too much. Stick with G rated films to be safe.
Fear Tolerances
Some 6 year olds may be brave thrill seekers while others are easily frightened by mild scares or villain characters. Know what types of things tend to upset your child and avoid those in PG movies. For example, monsters, darkness, creepy noises, etc.
Attention Span
The average PG movie may be 1.5 to 2 hours long. While some 6 year olds can sit through a full length film, others have shorter attention spans and may get restless. Opt for G rated or family films under 2 hours.
Maturity Level
Does your 6 year old demonstrate reasoning ability,impulse control and understanding of consequences for actions? Are they able to comprehend more complex storylines? If so, they may be ready for some PG content under supervision.
Personality
Some kids are sensitive souls and others have a bold spirit of adventure. Know your individual child’s personality strengths and weaknesses to gauge if they can handle PG intensity levels. Cautious kids may need to wait a few years.
| Factor | Ready for PG | Not Ready for PG |
|---|---|---|
| Emotional Maturity | Doesn’t get too distressed by scares, understands it’s not real | Gets very anxious, has nightmares |
| Fear Tolerance | Enjoys thrills and suspense | Frightens easily |
| Attention Span | Can focus for 2+ hours | Gets restless after 30-60 minutes |
| Maturity Level | Reasonably mature, understands complex plots | Still very innocent minded |
| Personality | Bold, adventurous | Cautious, sensitive |
Parental Guidance Strategies for PG Content
If you decide to allow your 6 year old to view something with a PG rating, here are some strategies to ensure the best experience:
Preview It Yourself First
Watch the film, TV episode or other media yourself before sharing with your 6 year old. This allows you to assess for any content you think is inappropriate for them to see right now and fast forward or skip those scenes.
Co-View Together
Watch PG movies, shows and videos with your 6 year old to monitor reactions in real time. Pause to discuss any confusing or frightening content. Be prepared to distract or reassure if needed.
Keep Bedtime in Mind
Don’t allow a 6 year old to view intense PG rated content too close to bedtime. Frightening visuals and suspense could cause trouble sleeping or nightmares. Give ample wind down time before bed.
Explaining Fantasy vs. Reality
Have conversations about how the fictional characters and events on screen are not real. Remind your child it is made up for entertainment and they are safe.
Watch in Moderation
While the occasional PG movie may be fine, limit overall screen time and exposure to mature themes. Balance with educational, interactive media.
Consider Alternatives
If you have doubts about PG content for your 6 year old, there are plenty of engaging G rated films and programs specifically made for this age group to view instead.
Examples of PG Movies and TV Shows for Age 6
While every child is different, here are some PG rated titles considered suitable for many 6 year olds under parental guidance:
Movies
- Mary Poppins
- The Goonies
- Honey, I Shrunk the Kids
- Home Alone
- Holes
- Charlotte’s Web
TV Shows
- The Magic School Bus
- Arthur
- Scooby Doo
- The Wild Thornberrys
However, use caution and preview first, as some episodes or installments may be scarier than others. Avoid any rated TV-PG-V for violence.
Options for Kids Too Young for Any PG Content
If you feel your 6 year old is not ready in any way for PG media, excellent entertainment options rated G or TV-Y include:
Movies
- Toy Story
- Finding Nemo
- Frozen
- The Lego Movie
- Despicable Me
- Inside Out
TV Shows
- Sesame Street
- Mister Roger’s Neighborhood
- Dora the Explorer
- Doc McStuffins
- Bubble Guppies
There are plenty of quality shows, films, games, books and apps specially designed for ages 5-8 with no questionable content.
Conclusion
The bottom line is every child has a unique sensitivity level when it comes to media content. While some precocious 6 year olds may be fine handling PG movies and shows with parent guidance, others will get better benefit sticking to purely G and TV-Y rated fare. Know your child’s maturity and disposition. Preview and co-view together. Limit PG exposure and give context. With wisdom and discretion, parents can make informed viewing choices for their 6 year old. The MPAA ratings provide a helpful starting guideline, but the judgement call relies on each family’s circumstances.