As our kids grow up, they become more independent and self-reliant, and while it can be great when they can start to take care of themselves a little more, it can also feel like they don’t need us as much anymore—and that, for a Latina mom, can be devastating. In order to stay connected to our kids as they get older, we have to set aside time to bond with them. When it comes to mothers and daughters, it can be even more important to maintain a positive relationship, especially as girls approach their tween and teen years.
For moms looking for the perfect way to connect with their daughters, look no further than the new Disney and Pixar movie, Turning Red. Here’s why it’s such a great movie for moms and daughters to watch together:
Important themes
Turning Red deals with some incredibly important topics and themes that come up during adolescence. The main character, 13-year-old Mei Lee, is torn between being the perfect daughter and her chaotic teen life. Her mom is actively involved in her life (sometimes too much … sound familiar?), which causes some tension in their relationship. On top of that, Mei is dealing with the normal adolescent issues of changing friendships, relationships, a changing body, changing interests, and the added layer of negotiating two different cultures, modern and traditional, which makes it even more appropriate for Latina moms to initiate conversations with daughters who are probably going through the same. On top of all these other changes she has to navigate, she has the added stress that every time she gets too excited, she mysteriously transforms into a giant red panda!
It's a conversation starter
Throughout the movie, as important topics come up, they can be the perfect conversation starters for you to talk about relevant themes with your kids that they’ll see on screen and be able to relate to. Sometimes, broaching tough conversations can be challenging for parents, so a movie is the perfect way to dip your toes into a new topic of conversation.
Great music
One of the simplest ways moms and daughters can connect is through music. Turning Red introduces Pixar’s first-ever boy band, 4*Town, with original songs written by Billie Eilish and FINNEAS. FINNEAS actually even voices one of the lead boy band members!
Bonding Time
Watching a movie together can be the perfect way to spend an uninterrupted hour-and-a-half together. To make this time even more special, put your phones aside, grab some snacks, and get comfy on the couch.
Stream Disney and Pixar’s Turning Red March 11 only on Disney+
