How ‘80s Movies Can Inform Parenting Approaches for Tweens and Teens

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As my children have matured, moving past the days of cartoons, my partner and I have embarked on a nostalgic journey to introduce our two tweens to the iconic cinematic treasures of the 1980s. This era of filmmaking not only evokes memories of my own childhood—complete with layered socks and extravagant hairstyles—but also offers valuable insights into the complexities of parenting today’s youth.

The films of the ’80s provided a lens to navigate challenging themes, from social issues to personal growth. Through cinematic experiences featuring beloved stars like John Candy, Molly Ringwald, and Anthony Michael Hall, we absorbed lessons that shaped our identities. These films addressed serious topics while also delivering humor and heart, making them timeless resources for parents today.

Revisiting these classics with my children has led me to discover how many of these films present relevant lessons that can guide us as we navigate the tween years. Below, I’ve paired common issues faced by tweens with corresponding ’80s films that provide wisdom and encouragement:

1. Bullying: If your child is experiencing bullying, Some Kind of Wonderful is a great reminder that good eventually prevails. And let’s not forget those iconic earrings worn by Mary Stuart Masterson.
2. Babysitting Skills: For tweens looking to babysit, Adventures in Babysitting serves up tips, not to mention the value of a good Thor hat. Singing the blues could boost their babysitting success in today’s market.
3. Lightening Up: Encourage your teen to embrace fun with Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. After all, who wouldn’t want to experience a day of adventure and maybe even eat pancreas?
4. Fitting In: If your teen struggles to connect with peers, Can’t Buy Me Love demonstrates that sometimes being a bit unconventional can lead to acceptance—especially if you have a lawn mower.
5. College Applications: When faced with the daunting task of college applications, Animal House offers a humorous glimpse into campus life that might just spark some motivation.
6. Sex Education: Discussing sensitive topics can be daunting. Dirty Dancing provides a narrative that touches on relationships, helping to broach the subject of intimacy with your teen.
7. Remembering Important Dates: If you’re busy and have overlooked significant events, sharing Sixteen Candles might resonate. Jake Ryan’s character reminds us that some things are worth remembering.
8. Respect for Parents: In Mr. Mom, the role reversal highlights the efforts of parents. A reminder that every contribution counts can help instill respect in your tween.
9. Growing Up: If your teen is in a rush to become an adult, Big illustrates that the responsibilities of adulthood might not be as glamorous as they seem—except for the joys of silly string.
10. Learning to Drive: For those apprehensive about teaching their teens to drive, License to Drive showcases both the excitement and chaos of this milestone.
11. Sports Aspirations: If your teen is disappointed about not making the football team, the story of Rudy emphasizes resilience and determination.
12. Life After High School: Finally, St. Elmo’s Fire can reassure your teen that college is a place for lifelong friendships and adventure, with a hint of romance.

Each of these films encapsulates essential life lessons that can enrich our parenting styles. We not only honor our past by revisiting these movies but also provide our children with insights that are applicable in their own lives. So as we settle in for a movie night, wearing our vintage attire, it’s clear that the wisdom of ’80s cinema continues to be relevant today.

For additional insights on parenting, you can explore this article, which provides further context on the importance of learning from the past.

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In summary, the lessons embedded in ’80s films are invaluable tools for parents of tweens and teens. By engaging with these classics, we can foster meaningful conversations and better understand the challenges our children face today.