WILL A NIGHT AT THE MOVIES CHANGE FOREVER?
Movie Theaters in Post-Pandemic Times
Out of all the businesses hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, few were affected more than movie theaters. For the past year, as movies have debuted on streaming services rather than in theaters, many industry leaders, critics, and theatergoers alike have raised the alarming question: Did COVID-19 kill the movie theater industry? In short? No. Not by a long shot. Though the past year has left the industry somewhat beleaguered (AMC closed 60 theaters permanently, Cineworld reported losses totaling $2 billion, and the Alamo furloughed more than 5,000 employees). Yet, despite all of this, a night at the movies is here to stay. When a Vox reporter reached out to various moviegoers about whether they would attend theaters once the pandemic ends, many of them said yes because streaming a film in their living room just can’t provide the same experience. Watching a movie in a theater completely immerses one in the experience — you can’t pause the film to watch later or do chores. And you’re in it with the whole theater. Comedies are funnier when you laugh with others. A hero’s triumphs are more spectacular when you cheer them on together. (Who didn’t go nuts when Captain America caught Thor’s hammer in “Avengers: Endgame”?) When you leave the theater, you feel a little closer to the strangers around you, and having been immersed in the movie alongside your friends, you can discuss how you liked the movie on the way home.
Of course, movie theaters will still change as a result of the pandemic. Theaters are working to become more digital, some even moving to eliminate paper tickets and creating options to order concessions before your arrival. More theaters may promote private viewings of movies so people can be more careful about whom they watch movies with. Some theaters are also trying to create more of an “experience” for moviegoers by offering a wider array of food and even comfier seats. However, these changes, especially given the circumstances of the past year, are hardly surprising. The movie theater industry has been evolving for over 100 years, and it certainly won’t stop evolving now.
RETURN TO SCHOOL SUCCESSFULLY 3 TIPS FOR EVERY FAMILY
adding another event to your schedule may seem daunting, it can be a great way to experience new, valuable moments. Plus, the people your student meets could offer new perspectives and greater learning opportunities. Ask for Help There is nothing wrong with admitting you need help, and this is a valuable lesson to teach your children from a young age. If you have a student who struggles in one subject, encourage them to seek tutoring or extra help from a teacher. They could find a mentor, make a new friend, and — perhaps most encouraging — improve their scores and learning abilities in a new subject, just because they asked for help. This will teach children that they can excel in whatever they try, so long as they actually try.
School Is a Job While there are many other valuable components to a child’s life, school should be their biggest priorities. To help your child see the value of school, encourage them to think of it like a career. This can be a powerful tool for high school or college students trying to balance activities, homework, and a social life. School should be a priority from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day, allowing students to segment their time. By 5 p.m., they can transition out of school and focus on other activities, like time with their friends or sports. (Of course, this may need to be modified for each student’s schedule.) Branch Out The connections we make with others help us become better people, learn more about the world, and foster valuable life skills. Encourage your children to make new friends or try new activities this school year. While the thought of
As your children prepare for the classroom, a return to routine could be just the welcome sight your family needs. However, every school year seems to get busier than the last, and it can be difficult to keep your children motivated as they navigate chaotic schedules. This year, help your family prepare with a few back-to-school tips from Don McKenna — who has successfully put three kids through school!
Good luck to all students, teachers, and families this school year!
2 • www.hwnn.com
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