I hate being late to anything.

 

Last Halloween, my family went to see Hotel Transylvania opening weekend on a Saturday, and we were running late. We saved some time by using the Fandango kiosk at our theater, but the only place for four people to sit together was in the very front row, where we had to look up the whole time. My husband wanted to leave, but I couldn’t do that to the kids. It happened to be a movie that the whole family could enjoy, so we all ended up smiling. We were lucky. But I’ve since made a plan to make sure we always get to the theater early. Not on time -- early.

 

Here’s how:

 

Plan for 15 minutes early

If the spouse is going, you might want to tell him or her that the movie starts 15 minutes earlier than it actually does. My husband waits until the very last minute. He likes to arrive at exactly the right time, and that doesn’t allow for the time you need when things come up, as you know they will. 

 

Research the right theater

I love going to theaters that feature pre-show content, like Regal Cinemas' “The 2wenty” or AMC Theaters' “Preshow Countdown.” It's easier to convince my husband to leave earlier (he won’t be bored if there is something he can watch), and it keeps the kids entertained and not running up and down the aisles. Know how long it will take you to get there and be sure to give yourself a few extra minutes for parking, getting inside, etc.

 

Buy tickets in advance

By buying tickets in advance, you avoid the line at the theater. When it’s a very popular release, the show might be sold out if you don’t get your tickets early. Before motherhood, if I really wanted to see a sold-out movie, I could wait and watch it at 10 p.m. Now, we end up just going home. So make sure you're covered.

 

Be prepared for the kids
Taking kids to the movies is a whole new ballgame when it comes to being prepared. Make sure the kids take potty breaks before you leave the house. Be ready for a diaper change if you’re at that stage. Have snacks prepared, or plan for time in the snack line. Kids are full of surprises, so it’s smart to get them ready early and have your bag packed in advance. You know, the bag you carry everywhere as a mom ... also known as a bottomless pit of a purse. 

 

Louise is a mom of two and has been blogging at Mom Start for the past three years, sharing recipes, product reviews, money-saving tips, and giveaways. To read more by Louise, visit MomStart.com or follow her on Twitter @MomStart.