Reel Mums

Before I had a baby I used to go to the cinema a few times a week, and I’m happy to discover that I can still go, and the baby can come too. Friends had told me they would bring their babies in to regular cinema sessions, and despite sitting at the back and baby sleeping quietly would get filthy looks from other patrons. Whilst babies and children are allowed into general sessions at all cinemas (subject to age restriction on certain films), many cinemas have special sessions for parents and children.

Every Thursday morning at 10am the Dendy cinema in Newtown has one of these screenings called Reel Mums, where a bit of noise is expected. The price of admission is $14 for adults and includes a free babycino at the Cinque café beside the cinema. Children under 5 are free. I brought my baby in a baby sling, but if you have a stroller they can be left in the lobby outside the theatre. Generally there are very few people in the mornings movies at the Dendy, so you can have your pick of seats. In the session I went to there were about 10 children, mostly young babies, and their parents and a few other people who didn’t have children with them.

The lights were dimmed but still dark enough to enjoy the movie and although they said the sound was lowered for the screening I didn’t notice. There were a few cries here and there, and some mums feeding their babies or walking up and down the aisles during the session. The good thing is that you know everyone will be tolerant so you don’t have to worry that your baby is going to wake and disturb everyone, and you don’t have to feel bad about having a little chat to your friend about the movie.

Reel Mums is highly recommended. It was great to be able to get out of the house with the baby and do something that I would normally do anyway, and also a good excuse to have a choc top before lunch. Many cinemas in Australia have parent and child sessions, some of which are listed here , and the Dendy lists the month’s movies in their website. Next Thursday’s session is Clubland, showing at 10am at the Dendy Newtown, 261-263 King St Newtown. For bookings phone: 02 9550 5699.