Advice needed..cinema unaccompanied??

[Pip2]

Hi all..infrequent poster but long time lurker here! My ds aged 11 is having a mate over this week and wants to go to the cinema to watch the dragon film with his friend, also aged 11. What age do u think is acceptable for them to go on their own?? If we do it, then I would take them to the cinema, purchase tickets, then meet them again when the film is finished and go for a pizza...Opinions/advice will be much appreciated!

My just 11 year old has recently done this for the first time. Most sensible 11 year olds should be ready for it now.

Sounds fine to me. There is very little that can happen to them, whilst they are watching a film!

DD was in Yr6, I think, when she first went into the pictures on her own.

I would probably let ds go when he is 11 (8 now), but going on previous AIBU threads, I would check with the other parents and make sure it is okay with them as well, as some people are not happy with the idea.

DD was 10/11 when she first went by herself. I think you need to be sure that they will behave themselves and don't disturb anyone.

I think Bruffin has the key point here. Its not when are they old enough to go by themselves but when are they mature enough to understand correct behaviour when no-one is monitoring them. This is obviously hard to work out. Too many (probably otherwise well behaved) kids behave poorly in public and cause annoyance because they are 'trusted' too soon. Almost impossible to tell too as few people complain even when they are irritated with a child's behaviour. Perhaps this time go with them and see how they are together. If they chat a lot you can probably assume they'll chat even more when you aren't there. If they are considerate and show awareness then trust them next time. Its never really about age - some kids at 10 can be very sensible and well socialised, others are still self centred and oblivious to others at 13 or more.

My son went to the cinema with his friend for the first time during February Half term (he is 11 and in y6). I unfortunately didnt even think of asking his friends parents and when I told them about it his mum said it was fine but I had a feeling that she wasnt happy about it. I purchased the tickets, popcorn, walked them into the cinema and saw them seated AND gave my DS a mobile phone as well. They both enjoyed their new found freedom. If your child is sensible then I dont see why not but dont forget to ask the other parents' permission

I think what you suggest is totally fine.

I leave DS1 (10, yr 6) at the swimming pool now, on his own (while others are having lessons) or with a friend or even his 8yo sister.

If you think about it, pool is much more dangerous place than cinema (tho they are all very good swimmers).

Tho I agree I would ask the other parent as well.

You know your own DS, if you are comfortable then why not....

My DS and DD (now 11.5 and 9) have been going in alone to the kids AM showing at our cinema since they were around 9.5 and 7 respectively... its a special kids screening for 95p on Saturday/Sunday mornings

I have tried to make sure they understand how to behave, they go to loo before I take them in and if one needs to go during film, they are to go together and wait by the entrance for each other....

They have a mobile phone to contact me if need to and are always seated with adequate supplies of popcorn, drinks etc

As it is kids AM showing they usually go to, I do think there will be a little more understanding about kids being kids (talking about good bits, getting excited etc) and haven't had any problems yet

DS11 went on his own with girlfriend for the first time during the holidays... took them in, bought tickets etc and they had a great time, no complaints from anybody else, and they were in the lobby waiting when I got back for them (film finished early as not many trailers)

Absolutely fine to do this.
Agree with everyone that you need to discuss with other parent, and have a conversation with them that they don't know who is in the cinema- a teacher from school, a parent who knows you- and that good behaviour is expected or there will be CONSEQUENCES.