Is “Outer Banks” suitable for tweens? Should you allow your teen to join the Pogues and Kooks on their adventures? Before you decide to make this Netflix series the next binge-watch for your family, it’s crucial to understand what it’s all about.
The show, featuring predominantly teenage characters, might seem like a perfect fit for your kids. However, it dives into some darker themes. The first season, led by actors like Jake Marshall, Emily Carter, Chris Lawson, and Sarah Jennings, centers around a treasure hunt. While the premise may sound innocent, the story reveals a rivalry between two groups of teens: the Kooks (wealthy kids) and the Pogues (less privileged kids). The stakes are high, as they are also searching for a missing person presumed dead. The second season escalates the adventure and introduces even more violence and intensity. And, of course, there’s a touch of romance amidst the chaos, which adds another layer to this seemingly light-hearted “teen” show.
As a parent, “Outer Banks” can be an enjoyable watch. It delivers humor, young love, and mystery—elements that make it entertaining for adults as well. With a third season on the way, you can expect your tweens or teens to ask to watch it, if they haven’t already. But is it truly appropriate for kids? Ultimately, it depends on your child’s maturity and your family’s viewing standards.
Is “Outer Banks” Appropriate for Kids?
You may have seen “Outer Banks” compared to a childhood classic like “The Goonies,” which holds a PG rating. In contrast, “Outer Banks” carries a TV-MA rating. This rating indicates that it’s intended for mature audiences due to potentially crude language, explicit sexual content, and graphic violence. While the show doesn’t contain explicit sexual scenes, it does feature a significant amount of strong language, including frequent use of the F-word and other profanities, along with some suggestive dialogue. Additionally, it portrays risky behaviors such as underage drinking and drug use, along with instances of violence, as the storyline revolves around a murder mystery.
That said, if you believe your children are mature enough to handle these themes, it may be worth letting them watch. Some parents, for example, opt to fast-forward through the more intense scenes when watching with their tweens.
Is “Outer Banks” Suitable for Teenagers?
While “Outer Banks” is rated for mature adults, many teenagers might find it suitable. The rating primarily stems from the violence and intense situations rather than sexual content. The show does depict drug use and gun violence, which some parents may find concerning. One way to gauge whether your teen is ready to watch is to screen it yourself first. Take notes on the content to identify any scenes you may want to skip or discuss further with your teen.
This approach allows you to address any questions your teen might have and engage in discussions about the various themes explored in the series, such as socioeconomic disparities, personal agency, and domestic issues. With only two seasons available, it shouldn’t take long for you to determine if the show is appropriate for your family.
Notable Inappropriate Scenes
Here are a few scenes you may want to skip if you decide to watch “Outer Banks” with your kids:
- A heavy make-out scene between a teen couple that stops short of becoming sexual.
- Multiple sexual jokes made by one character.
- The boys typically appear shirtless, and there are scenes featuring the girls in bikinis.
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In Summary
“Outer Banks” is a layered series that may appeal to teens, but it’s essential to consider your child’s maturity level. The show includes strong language, violence, and risky behavior, which may not be suitable for all viewers. As a parent, you know your child best. Watching it together can open up discussions about the complex themes present in the story.
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