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Archives for July 2025

Summer is fading fast but books are on the rise! Check out these great reads that will whisk you away on epic adventures this fall.

July 24, 2025 By Leave a Comment

The Boy Who Cried Wolf and other great stories with lessons by Uzma Farooq

2025 Parents’ Picks Awards Winner – Best Products for Elementary Kids and #1 New Release

Discover the master storyteller Aesop and his timeless tales. Dive into stories about hard work, responsibility, honesty, bravery, karma, and much more. Aesop’s fables come to us from ancient Greece and pass on important life lessons. Dig deep into these thirteen classical stories in this spectacularly illustrated, updated collection.

The Boy Who Cried Wolf
The Tortoise and the Hare
The Goose and the Golden Eggs
The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing
The City Mouse and the Country Mouse
The Lion and the Mouse
The Ants and the Grasshopper
The Fox and the Crow
Belling the Cat
The Crow and the Pitcher
The Fox and the Grapes
The Farm Girl and Her Milk
The Crab and His Mother

Luella’s Library by Tara Lala

Luella loves to read books, but her best friend, Lino, doesn’t.

What Lino soon discovers is that the books in Luella’s library are magical! When one of her books transports them to an enchanted land, they have to face unexpected obstacles and help new friends.

Will Luella and Lino complete their journeys along the way? Will they be able to help their new friend find his way back home? Or will Lino choose his phone over the adventures Luella’s library has in store?

The Pet Shop Nightmare by F.P. LaRue

Ollie receives a frantic call from his cousin Claire, who is in a state of panic. Her best friend, McKenna, has disappeared without a trace. She has not been seen for days, and all attempts to contact her have failed. When Claire recruits the help of Ollie and his friends, she receives a mysterious note telling her to mind her own business and gets the feeling she is being followed.

As Ollie, Mellie, and Scotty delve deeper into the mystery of McKenna’s disappearance, they uncover strange activities and dark secrets connected with the pet shop. With the disappearance of animals from the pet shop, they soon realize that something sinister is at play, and the evil forces involved will stop at nothing to protect their ominous plans. Just when things seem hopeless, Ollie receives assistance from an unexpected ally, leaving the trio astounded and intrigued.

In The Pet Shop Nightmare, Ollie, Mellie, and Scotty find themselves navigating a thick fog of danger and mystery. Will they survive long enough to find McKenna and unravel the mystery of the shop before they become the next ones to disappear?

Filed Under: Media Reviews

A Parent’s Guide to Striking the Right Balance When It Comes to Screen Time

July 18, 2025 By Leave a Comment

Navigating screen time as a parent can feel like walking a tightrope. On one hand, digital tools open the door to endless learning opportunities and creative outlets. On the other, too much screen exposure can impact everything from sleep to social development. The key is not in eliminating screens altogether but in finding a sustainable balance that supports your child’s growth.

This guide will walk you through how to approach screen time with intention, especially for children in the 4–7-year-old range, where early habits can have long-lasting effects.

Why Screen Time Needs Your Attention

Screens are a part of everyday life. From tablets and educational apps to family movie nights and video calls with grandparents, they’re not inherently bad. But when screen time replaces essential real-world experiences, such as physical play, family conversations, or quiet time, it can affect your child’s emotional regulation, attention span, and even academic performance.

Research suggests that unstructured, passive screen time (like binge-watching shows) offers far fewer benefits than interactive or co-viewed experiences. The challenge for parents isn’t just about counting hours, but it’s about making those hours count.

Understanding What Counts as “Screen Time”

Not all screen time is created equal. Educational apps that encourage problem-solving or story comprehension are more beneficial than watching fast-paced cartoons or aimlessly scrolling through videos. As a parent, it’s essential to:

  • Distinguish active from passive use
  • Consider the purpose behind the screen time
  • Prioritise co-engagement whenever possible

For example, sitting with your child while they use a learning app or watch a documentary fosters dialogue, critical thinking, and emotional connection.

How Much is Too Much?

There’s no one-size-fits-all rule, but age-based recommendations can offer helpful guidance. Younger children generally require more physical activity, social interaction, and rest, which are factors that too much screen time can disrupt.

If you’re unsure what the benchmarks are for your child’s age group, this recommended screen time by age guide provides a useful breakdown and practical ideas on balancing screen time with enriching offline experiences.

By focusing on high-quality and age-appropriate content, you can better support your child’s cognitive, emotional, and physical development, even in a tech-savvy world.

Signs You Might Be Off Balance

Watch out for these indicators that your child’s screen time might be tipping too far in the wrong direction:

  • Mood swings after device use
  • Resistance to turning off screens
  • Less interest in non-digital play
  • Struggles with sleep routines

If you notice any of these, it may be time to re-evaluate and create clearer boundaries.

Tips for Creating a Healthy Digital Routine

Establishing a clear framework around technology doesn’t have to feel restrictive. Here are some ideas to help you set your family up for screen success:

  • Create screen-free zones and times, such as during meals or before bedtime.
  • Use timers or visual aids to help young children understand limits.
  • Balance digital activities with physical play, outdoor time, and reading.
  • Model healthy screen habits yourself because children notice more than we think.

Let your child help create the plan. When they’re involved in setting the rules, they’re more likely to understand and respect them.

Turning Screen Time into Bonding Time

Whenever possible, treat screen time as a shared experience. Whether it’s playing a co-op video game, watching a nature documentary, or exploring a museum app, these moments can become opportunities for learning, laughter, and connection.

Ask questions. Encourage curiosity. And remember that your presence is what elevates a digital activity into a developmental opportunity.

Final Thought

Screens aren’t going anywhere, but with the right approach, they don’t have to be a source of stress. Instead, they can be another tool in your parenting toolkit, one that’s used with care, balance, and intention. By focusing on age-appropriate content, modeling good habits, and being present, you’re helping your child build a healthier relationship with technology that can last a lifetime.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

CASEKOO offering a Cozy Escape-Something we all need!

July 16, 2025 By Leave a Comment

CASEKOO and LittleManyu Unveil “Pawfect Chill Time” – A Whimsical, Heart-Healing Collection Offering a Cozy Escape from Busy Lives!

Premium tech accessory brand CASEKOO is delighted to announce its newest collaboration: “Pawfect Chill Time”, a heartwarming and whimsical collection co-created with internet sensation Manyu (@littlemanyu_). With over 30 million fans across social media, Manyu has become a beloved symbol of comfort, joy, and simple pleasures — and now, she’s ready to bring that same healing energy to your everyday tech.

Inspired by Manyu’s signature moments of mindful rest and sweet serenity, the Pawfect Chill Time collection celebrates the art of slowing down. Anchored by CASEKOO’s latest Magic Stand case, the collection features Manyu’s fluffy face curled up in cozy bliss — from bubble baths to nap-time dreams — inviting users to embrace stillness and self-care.

“We created this collection to encourage people to slow down and breathe,” said Ralph, founder of CASEKOO. “Whether it’s a short nap, a warm bubble bath, or just a few quiet minutes to yourself, these little moments of chill time can truly heal.”

Comfort Meets Customization

The Magic Stand case goes beyond charm — it’s built for function and versatility. Combining a kickstand, a secure finger ring holder, and a MagSafe-compatible magnetic circle, the sleek design supports both relaxation and productivity. The upgraded Pro version features full 360° rotation, allowing for seamless adjustment at any angle.

Adding a layer of personalized joy, each case includes interchangeable MagStickers tucked behind the stand — showing off different adorable “chill modes” of Manyu. Whether she’s soaking in a bubble bath, snuggled under a blanket, or simply enjoying a quiet moment, these swappable designs let users express their vibe — one cute sticker at a time.

A Healing Touch in a Busy World

Packaged in exclusive, Manyu-style collector’s boxes, the Pawfect Chill Time collection is more than a phone case — it’s a celebration of self-love, warmth, and whimsical expression. Each detail echoes Manyu’s message: that healing doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a cozy nap or a gentle smile.

Whether you’re a dog lover, a fan of custom pet cases, or someone who simply adores cute design with thoughtful function, this limited-edition collaboration offers a comforting reminder to slow down — and carry a little chill with you.

To discover more, visit https://casekoo.com/manyu-global-portal.

I received a free sample to facilitate this post, and it is adorable! A must-buy for all dog lovers!

Filed Under: Pet Corner

Sanderson, July 18th Pet of the Week

July 15, 2025 By Leave a Comment
AWWWWWWW! SOOOOOO adorable!

Sanderson, you wear it well! Our boy wears doggie clothing as if it were a second skin. And he’s mostly skin! Sanderson, 3 years old, is unique in that he’s covered with a thin, brown fuzz. This confounded the staff and volunteers when he was picked up after being abandoned with three other dogs in a parking lot. After three months of treatment and observation, everyone concluded that Sanderson was a mix of mastiff and Xoloitzcuintle, a hairless dog from Mexico whose breed dates back to the Aztecs. Despite the noble lineage, Sanderson is constantly silly, waggy and happy. He plays joyfully in the play yard with his favorite toy, a stuffed lamb. “In ancient Mexico, the Xolo was considered sacred, and we feel all dogs deserve to be valued, respected and loved,” reads Sanderson’s bio on the shelter’s adoption page. Sanderson’s been at the shelter since November last year, and he deserves his own place where he can be worshipped. Long Beach Animal Care Services is over capacity with dogs, so speed the process to adopt or foster Sanderson or any of our other pets by emailing PetAdopt@longbeach.gov or petfoster@longbeach.gov. You can also call (562) 570-4925. Shelter hours are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 7700 E. Spring St. at the entrance to El Dorado Park (no parking fee for shelter visitors). Ask for ID#A731759.

Filed Under: Pet Corner

Shadow Dancing or Silent Disco for Seniors With Hearing Loss

July 15, 2025 By Leave a Comment

Dancing without loudspeakers may sound odd, yet growing numbers of senior living communities invite residents to slip on wireless headphones and move together in near silence. Called “shadow dancing” or “silent disco,” these gatherings swap booming stereos for headsets, letting each participant adjust the volume or simply feel the beat through light vibrations while chatting between songs.

For older adults who cherish music but juggle hearing loss, this quiet twist on ballroom fun keeps them active, sociable, and confident without the strain of booming noise.

A New Way To Feel The Music

Traditional dance nights often overpower sensitive ears, and turning the speakers down can sap energy. With silent-disco gear, volunteers hand out lightweight cordless headphones, all tuned to the same playlist. Gentle bass pads let dancers sense rhythm through subtle pulses, turning each step into a friendly echo they feel as well as hear.

Because sound stays inside the headsets, staff keep lighting soft and cozy, giving shy movers freedom to experiment at their own pace.

Keeping Conversations Flowing

A hidden bonus of shadow dancing is the way it rescues conversation. At most parties, friends shout over a band and strain to read lips. Here, removing or tilting back one earcup lets partners speak in gentle tones, catch facial cues, and gesture freely without background roar.

That freedom helps seniors using hearing aids save battery power and reduces listening fatigue, making the night as much about laughter as footwork. Visiting family can share a favorite tune and then chat about shared memories while the playlist keeps rolling quietly in the background.

Building Confidence And Balance

Many elders give up dancing because they fear falling or appearing awkward. Silent disco sessions start with slow, familiar songs so everyone can reconnect with simple steps and rebuild trust in their bodies. Since no one else hears your exact mix, missteps feel private, easing self-consciousness.

Moving in rhythm strengthens legs, hips, and core muscles, promoting steadier walking the next day. Leaders often weave in seated-dance options, allowing wheelchair users to roll, tap, and sway beside standing partners, proving that movement really is for everyone.

Easy Planning, Big Smiles

Hosting a shadow dance is simpler than booking a live band. A tablet, a pocket-size transmitter, and a set of rechargeable headsets can create a full event in minutes. The gear travels easily, so organizers bring the party to courtyards or recreation rooms without wrestling heavy amplifiers.

Neighbors just outside the doors remain undisturbed, letting gatherings run longer or pop up during traditional quiet hours. Minimal setup costs translate into more frequent sessions, turning an ordinary weekday afternoon into a celebration of music, motion, and community spirit.

Conclusion

Silent disco shows that joy does not need to be loud. By wrapping each dancer in a private bubble of melody yet leaving space for real conversation, shadow dancing transforms seniors’ hearing challenges into an invitation to move, laugh freely, dance, connect, and celebrate the songs that shaped a lifetime—together.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Summer at the California Science Center

July 15, 2025 By Leave a Comment
California Science Center

The California Science Center offers many options for family-friendly fun and learning throughout the summer, with free general admission, multiple IMAX movies, and new and returning exhibitions. Selected highlights include:

GAME ON! Science, Sports & Play: FREE

Brand new GAME ON! Science, Sports & Play highlights the powerful connection between science, sports and play through a multitude of interactive experiences that help visitors to understand the scientific principles behind sports, empowering athletes at all levels to improve performance, prioritize wellness and play safer.

The exhibition has over 25 interactive experiences offering hands-on activities and virtual guidance via video from a well-loved team of Los Angeles-based mentor athletes. Interactive activities available include: baseball hitting, softball reaction times, basketball shooting and dribbling, soccer, yoga, dance, swimming, and board sports, among others.

Dogs! A Science Tail: FREE

Returning to the California Science Center for a limited engagement before the next stop on its international tour, this popular exhibition explores the bond between humans and dogs. Through immersive, multisensory and highly interactive experiences, guests will learn first-hand the extraordinary way that dogs see, hear and smell the world.

Ecosystems: FREE, highlights include:

  • The giant Kelp Forest where guests can join a Q&A session with a diver to learn more about these underwater forests and the animals that live there.
  • The Rocky Shore includes a touch tank where visitors discover how sea life survive harsh conditions and can touch a creature or two.
  • The Desert with live animals including desert tortoises, scorpions, fennec foxes, among others.

Additional zones in the Ecosystems gallery include Poles, Deep-Sea Vents, Island Zone, River Zone, L.A. Zone, and Global Zone – all with interactive elements to explore.

World of Life: FREE, includes:

  • Life! Beginnings with hands-on exhibits showing how living things grow, develop, and survive.
  • Bodyworks Theater where guests meet Tess, the 50-foot human body simulator in a show full of animatronics, animation, and special effects.

Fire! Science & Safety: FREE, includes:

  • Guests can explore how to make families, pets and homes safer from fire and burn hazards.
  • Hands-on interactives to investigate the science of fire and learn how to prevent or stop fire and burns, including practicing fire fighting skills with a fire extinguisher and kitchen safety tips among others.

Goose Bumps! The Science of Fear: FREE, includes:

  • An exploration of the universal emotion that can save lives through fun, interactive challenges where guests can experience common fears (such as  animals, electric shock, loud noises, and falling) in a safe environment and discover the science behind our physical and emotional responses.

Endeavour Together: Parts and People: FREE, includes:

  • While Space Shuttle Endeavour is off exhibit during the construction of its new home, the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, guests can explore artifacts from Endeavour and the external tank.
  • Endeavour Together celebrates the space shuttle program and the people who helped make it possible, highlighting the strong ties to California, including a dramatic video showing Endeavour’s move across Los Angeles among other images and videos.

AT HOME

If you can’t join us in person this summer, there are FREE virtual field trips for K-5th grade found on the website here; and a guide to science activities that can be safely performed at home, here.

IMAX

There are four movies currently available in the IMAX Theater for a fee. Now showing on our 7-story screen are: Superhuman Body 3D, a journey into the world of medical marvels and an exploration into the extraordinary ways our bodies work; Blue Whales 3D, which takes viewers on a journey to learn about the largest animal ever to have lived; The Blue Angels 3D, featuring never-before-seen footage that chronicles a year with the Navy’s elite Flight Demonstration Squadron; and Antarctica 3D, which takes audiences to the farthest reaches of this wild and majestic continent. It is the coldest, driest and windiest place on Earth with the roughest oceans and yet, weird and wonderful creatures thrive here in astounding abundance.

SHOP

The ExploraStore, located on the main floor of the Science Center, offers a wide range of gifts to suit every budget and every explorer. Some of the more popular items this year include a special collection of Dogs! exhibit-themed merchandise that includes adult and youth apparel, as well as Husky, German Shepherd and Golden Lab plushies alongside other unique toys. The ExploraStore also offers the convenience to purchase items online here. All proceeds from the store go to support the California Science Center Foundation, a Non-Profit California Corporation.

For additional experiences and further information visit the website at www.californiasciencecenter.org

Credit: California Science Center.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Celebrate Summer Reading and Support Glendale Library, Arts & Culture with a Custom Tote Designed by Artist Asher Bingham

July 15, 2025 By Leave a Comment

This summer, Glendale Library, Arts & Culture invites readers of all ages to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge, a seasonal celebration of books, creativity, and community. When you sign up at any of the eight neighborhood library branches, you’ll receive a FREE limited-edition tote bag designed by Los Angeles-based artist Asher Bingham. Totes are available while supplies last.

The custom tote features detailed illustrations of the eight library branches, the beloved Bookmobile, and the Beyond the Box public art utility boxes. Each illustration represents the  unique neighborhoods and cultural landmarks that define the Glendale community. Created by Bingham, whose compassionate artistry became widely recognized after the January 2025  Eaton and Palisades fires by offering free, hand-drawn portraits of lost homes to affected families. The tote is both a functional keepsake and a visual tribute to local resilience.

Through partnerships with artists, public art programs, and community-centered events like the Summer Reading Challenge, the City of Glendale’s Arts and Culture Commission continues to shape Glendale into a thriving cultural destination within Southern California.

WHEN: 

The Summer Reading Challenge is happening now through August 9, 2025.

WHERE: 

Any of the eight Glendale neighborhood library branches 

MORE INFORMATION:

For more information about the summer reading program, please visit eglendalelac.org/summerreading.

Credit:  Library, Arts & Culture and City of Glendale & its Arts and Culture Commission.

Filed Under: SoCal City Kids News

Superman * Powerful Storytelling, Emotional Depth, Fresh Take On The Iconic Hero

July 12, 2025 By Leave a Comment

Superman, DC Studios’ first feature film to hit the big screen, is set to soar into theaters worldwide this summer from Warner Bros. Pictures. In his signature style, James Gunn takes on the original superhero in the newly imagined DC universe with a singular blend of epic action, humor and heart, delivering a Superman who’s driven by compassion and an inherent belief in the goodness of humankind.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Isabella V. comments, “Superman is a visually stunning and incredibly entertaining movie with great worldbuilding and an investing story. With a fantastic cast of characters supported by amazing performances, there’s never a dull moment in this movie.” Valerie M. comments, “I love the new Superman! It has such a compelling story that kept me at the edge of my seat. I also really love how the story is brought to life with the help of special effects.”  Carter P. adds, “The new Superman movie captivated me with its powerful storytelling, emotional depth, and a fresh, yet faithful, take on the iconic hero that renewed my love for the character.” Spencer C. adds, “I love the film Superman because it is so funny, and full of action. I also love that there are so many sub-plots to follow and they all come together at the end.” Avani M. adds, “Superman is a great superhero movie with a cute dog and beautiful storyline. I love the movie and including Superdog Krypto sealed the deal! I love the mix between action, drama and comedy.” Leo G. wraps it up with, “The film’s message is that being human is not where you are from, it is who you are on the inside, and no one can define it for you. You have to believe in yourself and the good you bring to the world.” See their full reviews below.

Superman By Isabella V., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 14

Superman is a visually stunning and incredibly entertaining movie with great worldbuilding and an investing story. With a fantastic cast of characters supported by amazing performances, there’s never a dull moment in this movie.

The storyline follows Superman (David Corenswet) as he deals with being both a Kryptonian alien and living as Clark Kent on Earth his whole life. He soon finds that what he stands for, truth and justice for all, is questioned by humanity and is taken advantage of by billionaire Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult).

The CGI in this movie is impeccable, from animals to locations, everything looks so realistic and magical allowing nothing to feel as if it stands out, leaving for an immersive experience. For example, the Fortress of Solitude, the place where Superman resigns, fits extremely well into the surrounding environment of the Arctic. The fighting is also outstandingly well choreographed and very entertaining – all the stunts feel unique and take advantage of the characters’ abilities such as Superman’s ability to fly and shoot laser eyes. Speaking of which, the characters are unbelievably well written and fit perfectly into the plot. Every character exceeds in their attributes, whether it’s the antagonist Lex Luther or Superman, they all feel like real people. The story is also easily understandable to someone like me, who’s never seen anything Superman related. I found the plot points all well explained while not feeling forced. The movie also has remarkable jokes and comedic timing by the cast. There are so many good laughs throughout the film whether from visual gags or spoken lines while not taking away from more serious moments. The music, by David Fleming and John Murphy, gives a grander feeling to fight sequences or sadder feelings to more heartwarming scenes. The music is also astonishingly catchy and nice to listen to on its own. My favorite part has to be the costuming, specifically for the heroes. Everything is so detailed; you can tell that so much thought went into the designs, from the theming to their functionality. I especially enjoyed the hawk girl’s superhero costume.

The film’s message is to appreciate the life you’ve lived and those who’ve supported you through it. Be forewarned that there is some profanity, smoking, and some intense bloody scenes.

I give Superman 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters July 11, 2025.

Superman

By Valerie M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 12

I love the new Superman! It has such a compelling story that kept me at the edge of my seat. I also really love how the story is brought to life with the help of special effects. 

The storyline is about Superman (David Corenswet) being under fire after getting involved in international affairs. When Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) supposedly retrieves the missing second half of the message from his biological parents which instructs Superman to take over the human world, the public goes completely against him. Superman now has to prove he is the kind of person he said he was. 

This film really makes you think about everyone’s actions. Superman himself makes mistakes, yet the story shows that what makes him a hero and a human is what he sets out to do. Lex Luthor is truly my new favorite movie villain. His motivations are clear. He is cold and calculating. He will stop at nothing to get what he wants. He lies to the public and gets rid of anyone who gets in his way. The ending really just brings this home. But he has layers and intentions that make you think from time to time that maybe he is trying to help. This movie also brings an interesting take on politics and how social media can affect public perception. People don’t question the message shared by Lex Luthor and don’t hold back on attacking Superman. The film makes you question Superman’s actions. Were they really justified? Should he have done the things he did? He makes mistakes and fails multiple times. When he realizes that this is what makes him human it gives him strength and he prevails. I also adore Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan). You can really see her personality and determination in this movie. She doesn’t immediately go praising Superman in her interview, even though they’re secretly dating. When he disappears, she sets out to find him with the help of others. She will stop at nothing to make sure the people she cares for are safe. I love that she plays an important role in this story. 

The film’s message is that to be human is to make mistakes but also a reminder to wish for the good of others. Be aware that there is some profanity, making out, lots of fighting and even death, but nothing is bloody or gory.  

I give Superman 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on July 11, 2025.

Superman
By Carter P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13


The new Superman movie captivated me with its powerful storytelling, emotional depth, and a fresh, yet faithful, take on the iconic hero that renewed my love for the character.

The storyline reimagines Clark Kent’s (David Corenswet) journey with a perfect balance of heart, heroism, and humanity. It explores his struggle to find his place in a divided world while staying true to his values and protecting those he loves. When Superman gets drawn into conflicts at home and abroad, his actions are questioned, giving tech billionaire Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) the opportunity to get the Man of Steel out of the way for good. Will Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) and Superman’s four-legged companion, Krypto, be able to help him before it’s too late?

Superman delivers a bold and emotionally take on the Man of Steel, blending storytelling with epic superhero spectacle. The film blends intense action with deeply emotional moments, showing not just Superman’s strength but his compassion and vulnerability. The powerful performances, stunning visuals, and a story grounded in hope makes it an unforgettable experience.  David Corenswet is the perfect Superman; he radiates hope, strength, and heroism.  Rachel Brosnahan shines as a sharp, fearless Lois Lane with real chemistry that anchors the film. The supporting cast – Nathan Fillion as a witty Green Lantern, Isabela Merced as a fierce Hawkgirl, and Edi Gathegi as the brilliant Mister Terrific – adds energy to every scene they appear in. Nicholas Hoult’s Lex Luthor is terrifying and brilliant.  Standout scenes like Superman’s emotional heart-to-heart with Pa Kent, and the final showdown with a twisted clone showcase the film’s range from high-stakes action to quiet and powerful moments.  Director James Gunn crafts a movie using warmth, wit, and stunning visuals to redefine Superman for a new generation.

The film’s message is that true strength lies not just in power, but in compassion, integrity, and the courage to do what’s right even when the world doubts you. It emphasizes the importance of hope, belonging, and choosing kindness in a divided and often cynical world. At its core, the film reminds us that being a hero starts with staying true to your values.

I give Superman 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. You can see Superman in theaters beginning July 11, 2025.  

Superman

By Spencer C., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 10

I love the film Superman because it is so funny, and full of action. I also love that there are so many sub-plots to follow and they all come together at the end.

The storyline follows the super-hero called Superman (David Corenswet), who is from the planet Krypton. He has to fight battles, save humans, and prove that he is a good person. No one knows his real identity or that he is also Clark Kent. Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) tells the world that Superman is here to rule, not help, by exposing a message from his parents. Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) is Superman’s girlfriend, and has to persevere through challenges to help save her boyfriend. 

The acting stands out and the set is amazing. I could tell they were going for a very cold snowy place at the beginning of the movie, and the ice palace coming out from the ground looks super realistic. I believe that David Corenswet was made to play the role of Superman – he brings this role to life and really shows Superman’s various emotions.  My favorite character is the dog Krypto, Superman’s best bud. He is inspired by the director James Gunn’s dog. My favorite part in the movie is when Superman says, “Krypto, get the toy,” and he starts chewing up every robot!

The film’s message is that kindness prevails over everything. Be aware that there is a lot of violence and some bad language in the film.

I rate Superman 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on Friday, July 11, 2025.

Superman

By Avani M., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 13

Superman is a great superhero movie with a cute dog and beautiful storyline. I love the movie and including Superdog Krypto sealed the deal! I love the mix between action, drama and comedy.

The story follows Superman (David Corenswet) and his journey of fighting villains while hiding behind his alter ego, reporter Clark Kent. He struggles when a video from his parents is exposed and the world starts to turn on him. Despite all the hate, he works hard to fight the villain, Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult) while Lex comes up with different ways to cause chaos in Metropolis.

One setting that really stands out to me is Superman’s Fortress of Solitude which we sometimes see when Superman goes into his fortress. The visual effects artists put so much amazing and beautiful detail into it, I wish I could be there. With big shoes to fill, David Corenswet is a great Superman. After being lost and hurt, I can feel the rebuilding of his confidence when he starts believing in himself again. I also feel his fear when he finds out he is not what his parents wanted him to be. Despite being naughty at times, Superdog Krypto provides so much cuteness and we feel how deeply Superman loves him. Nicholas Hoult portrays Lex Luthor’s anger and envy in such a way that it makes me mad. He is very animated and articulate, and uses his facial expressions very well. Rachel Brosnahan lives up to the image of the strong reporter Lois Lane and challenges Superman as a reporter while still staying true to her love for him. Neva Howell and Pruitt Taylor Vince play Ma and Pa Kent respectively as such loving and caring parents. They give some of the best performances in the movie. Skyler Gisondo and Sara Sampaio play Jimmy and Eve with great comedic relief, both of which are important characters to the plot.

There are many messages here. One is that your choices and your actions are what make you who you are. We are also reminded to stay close and true to our values. Once Superman finds out he is not what his birth parents expect him to be, he still stays true to his values and keeps doing good. Another message is that being human is waking up and trying your best. You may make mistakes along the way, but that’s how you learn. It reminds us that we are not always perfect and that it is okay to not be the best at everything. Be aware that there is some profanity used and some creatures and scenes might be scary for younger audiences.

I give Superman 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages to 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters on July 11, 2025.

Superman
By Leo G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

I enjoyed Superman because it is funny, has great cinematography, and the actors are very good.

The storyline follows the beloved character, Superman (David Corenswet), who grapples with what it means to be an alien while also feeling like a human. He battles against the evil plots of Lex Luther (Nicholas Hoult). At the same time, he works on his relationships with Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) and his poorly behaved dog, Krypto. 

David Corenswet makes an amazing Superman – not only does he look like the Superman we all know and love from the comics, he also plays a strong but sensitive and loving man perfectly. Rachel Brosnahan’s Lois Lane is a modern take on the character, and in a good way. In this film, Lois Lane is a more independent woman than in prior versions of Superman, but she still feels like Lois Lane and I like the new twist to her character. This movie not only has awesome characters but the cinematography is amazing. The lighting is used in very interesting ways; there are subtle changes that reflect Superman’s feelings.  For example, when Superman doubts himself the most, he is in a dark place not only emotionally but visually as well. However, during an interaction with Lex Luther, when Superman’s faith in his own humanity peaks, so much light fills the space that you cannot help but feel happiness for Superman. The viewer also feels happiness throughout many comedic moments in the movie. Krypto, the dog, provides a lot of laughs with his rambunctious behavior. And, a group of meta-humans, referred to as the Justice Gang and led by an unheroic Green Lantern called Guy Gardner (Nathan Fillion), shows up throughout the movie and keep the audience laughing.

The film’s message is that being human is not where you are from, it is who you are on the inside, and no one can define it for you. You have to believe in yourself and the good you bring to the world. 

I give Superman 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults.  It releases in theaters starting July 11, 2025.

Trailer:

Filed Under: Media Reviews
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