Going to the movies with your baby can be a challenge. What if he cries? Will it bother other people? What if I need to change his diaper, what if he gets hungry? How will I breastfeed him during the session? Faced with so many obstacles, many mothers prefer to avoid the big screen until their child is older. But that doesn’t have to be the case. Not when São Paulo hosts Cinematerna!
In case you’ve never heard of it, Cinematerna is a non-profit organization that operates all over Brazil, bringing cinema sessions adapted for families and babies up to 18 months. The aim is to provide entertainment for adults and comfort for children in a safe and welcoming environment.
In addition, the project serves as a support network. After all, there moms can meet other women at the same point in their lives, sharing tips and testimonials.
Hello, families: meet Cinematerna!
Motherhood is full of transformations, and one of them – which isn’t talked about much – is women’s leisure time. This is because a baby’s first years demand total dedication from moms, but unfortunately not all of the places they used to go to are welcoming to their little ones.
With this in mind, in 2003 a group of mothers got together to create Cinematerna and promote inclusive movie sessions for families. Among the adaptations, there is a reduction in the volume of the film, mild air conditioning, changing tables in the room and even “parking” for strollers.
If the little ones cry, no problem, you can continue watching the movie as normal. But if you prefer to leave, the lights remain slightly on so you can get around safely. What’s more, a group of volunteer mothers is always on hand to help in case of need.
The priority is families with babies up to 18 months old, but you can bring older children if you like. You just have to pay attention to the rating, as the films are for adult entertainment.
Finally, each screening is followed by a chat, where those present can get to know each other and debate. In other words, as well as making cinemas more accessible to mothers, it also provides social and emotional support.
How to take part?
Cinematerna is present in several cinemas in São Paulo, such as Anália Franco, Tietê Plaza, Ibirapuera, Vila Olímpia and Metrô Itaquera. To take part, all you have to do is buy your ticket at the box office or on the website of your favorite cinema. But it’s worth noting that some screenings have limited passes!
Although the name refers specifically to mothers, fathers and caregivers of babies are also welcome. Finally, two weeks before the screening, the public can vote on which movie they would like to see.
To check out the project’s next dates in São Paulo, visit the Cinematerna website.
