Mom on Stranger Things: A Spoiler-Filled Love Letter
Hey there, fellow Stranger Things enthusiasts! If you're here, you're probably a mom who's been binge-watching the Upside Down with the same fervor as your kids. Well, grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine, we won't judge), and let's dive into this wild, '80s nostalgia-fueled world together. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and mom on stranger things.
Mom's Guide to Stranger Things
First things first, what's this whole Stranger Things thing about?
Alright, so you've got these kids in Hawkins, Indiana, in the '80s. There's Eleven, with her psychokinetic powers and love for Eggos. Then there's Mike, Lucas, and Dustin, your classic group of misfits. And let's not forget Will, the boy who went missing and ended up in the Upside Down, a dark alternate dimension. Oh, and there's a monster on the loose, a sinister government conspiracy, and a bunch of adults trying to keep their heads above water. It's a lot, but trust me, it's worth the ride.
Why should moms care about Stranger Things?
Well, moms on Stranger Things have a unique perspective. We see ourselves in Joyce (Winona Ryder), struggling to keep it together while fighting for our kids. We cringe at Nancy's (Natalia Dyer) poor decisions, knowing all too well the mistakes our teens will make. And we cheer for the kids, hoping they'll grow up to be as brave and resilient as our own.
Plus, it's a great conversation starter with your kids. They'll love seeing you get into the show, and you might even pick up some new slang (like "friends don't lie," or "hellfire club"). Just don't try to pull off a mullet, okay?
Mom-Approved Stranger Things Moments
Joyce's unbreakable bond with Will
Joyce's love for her son is the heart of the show. She's relentless in her search for him, facing off against monsters and government agents alike. As moms, we see ourselves in her desperation and determination. It's a reminder that, when it comes to our kids, we're all Joyce Byers.
Eleven's found family
Eleven's journey from isolated lab rat to beloved friend is a beautiful reminder that family isn't always blood. As moms, we know how important it is for our kids to find their tribe. Seeing Eleven, Mike, Lucas, and Dustin come together is a heartwarming testament to that.
Nancy and Jonathan's unlikely alliance
Nancy and Jonathan's relationship starts as a cliché (popular girl and outcast boy), but it quickly becomes something more. They form an unlikely alliance, proving that sometimes, the people we least expect can become our closest friends. It's a great lesson for our kids (and us) to learn.
Mom's Stranger Things Survival Guide
How to handle the scares
Let's face it, Stranger Things can be intense. If you're watching with your kids, be prepared for some jump scares. Here are a few tips:
- Watch together: It's always better to face the Mind Flayer together. - Talk it out: After a scary scene, chat with your kids about what just happened. It can help put things into perspective. - Take breaks: If it's getting too intense, don't be afraid to pause the show and come back later.
What to do when your kids start dressing like their favorite characters
First, embrace the style. It's a great way for them to express themselves and connect with the show. Just keep an eye on those mullets.
Second, use it as a teaching moment. Talk to them about the history behind the fashion, and why it's important to be true to themselves.
And finally, invest in a good costume. You know your kids will want to dress up for Halloween. Make it easy on yourself and get a quality costume that'll last.
Mom's Stranger Things Predictions
As we wait for Season 4, moms on Stranger Things can't help but speculate about what's next. Here are a few of my theories:
- Bye-bye, Hawkins: With the Upside Down spreading, it's time for our heroes to leave Hawkins behind. Maybe they'll finally get that school trip to Russia they've been dreaming of. - Eleven's past catches up with her: Eleven's mom is still out there, and she's not going to stop looking for her daughter. Could this lead to a heartwarming (or heartbreaking) reunion? - A new big bad: The Mind Flayer is strong, but it's not the only monster in the Upside Down. Who knows what other horrors await our heroes?
Mom's Stranger Things Watch Party Tips
Snacks, snacks, snacks
No watch party is complete without snacks. Here are a few ideas:
- Eggos: Eleven's favorite food is now a staple at our house. - Doritos: Because "friends don't lie," and neither do Nacho Cheese Doritos. - New Coke: It's back, and it's stranger than ever.
Dress up
Encourage your family to dress up like their favorite characters. It's a great way to get into the spirit of things.
Stranger Things trivia
Print out some trivia questions (you can find them online) and have a contest. The winner gets to choose the next show to binge.
Mom's Stranger Things Inspired Crafts
DIY Eleven wig
Can't afford an official Eleven wig? No problem! Grab a pack of white hair dye and some bobby pins, and you'll be channeling your inner Eleven in no time.
Upside Down slime
Kids love slime, and this Upside Down version is perfect for your next craft session. Just mix some clear glue, borax, water, and a few drops of black food coloring. Gross but fun!
Stranger Things-themed jewelry
Make your own Eleven or Joyce-inspired necklaces using beads and string. It's a great way to show off your fandom.
Mom's Stranger Things Inspired Recipes
Eleven's waffle recipe
Eleven loves her waffles, and now you can too. Here's a simple recipe:
- Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, 1 tsp salt, 2 large eggs, 1 1/2 cups milk, 6 tbsp butter (melted), 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract. - Instructions: Whisk together dry ingredients. In another bowl, mix wet ingredients. Combine both mixtures. Cook in waffle iron until golden brown. Serve with syrup and enjoy!
Joyce's coffee
Joyce drinks a lot of coffee, and with good reason. Make your own Stranger Things-inspired coffee with this simple recipe:
- Ingredients: Coffee grounds, water, milk (optional), sugar (optional). - Instructions: Brew coffee according to your preferred method. Add milk and sugar to taste. Drink until you can see the Upside Down.
Mom's Stranger Things Playlist
No watch party is complete without a soundtrack. Here are some songs to get you in the mood:
- Kids in America - Kim Wilde: The perfect anthem for our '80s-loving heroes. - Separate Ways (World Apart) - Journey: A classic rock song that captures the heartache of growing up. - Material Girl - Madonna: Because Nancy's got the style, and the attitude, to match. - Don't You (Forget About Me) - Simple Minds: The ultimate Stranger Things anthem.
Mom's Stranger Things FAQ
Is Stranger Things appropriate for kids?
Stranger Things is rated TV-14, which means it's generally suitable for kids 14 and up. However, it does contain some intense violence and scary scenes. It's up to you to decide if your kids are ready for it.
What should I watch after Stranger Things?
If you're looking for more shows like Stranger Things, try Stranger Things-inspired shows like:
- The Dark: A German series with a similar '80s aesthetic and a mysterious alternate dimension. - The Haunting of Hill House: A creepy family drama with plenty of scares and emotional depth. - Stranger Things-inspired movies like: - IT: A classic horror film with a group of misfit kids facing off against an otherworldly monster. - Super 8: A '70s-set sci-fi film with a group of kids uncovering a mysterious event.
How can I get my kids to watch Stranger Things with me?
Here are a few tips:
- Start with the first episode: It's the least scary, and it does a great job of setting up the world of Stranger Things. - Talk about the show: Discuss the themes and characters with your kids. It'll help them engage with the show on a deeper level. - Make it a family event: Set aside time each week to watch together. It'll become a cherished tradition.
Mom's Stranger Things Confession
I'll admit it, I've shed a tear or two while watching Stranger Things. It's not just the scares that get me, it's the emotional depth of the show. It's the way it captures the joy and pain of growing up, the love and loss that comes with family, and the power of friendship. It's a show that speaks to the mom in me, and the kid at heart.
So, fellow moms, grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and let's dive into the Upside Down together. After all, we're all just trying to keep our kids safe, one monster at a time.
Happy watching!