We can all agree that the current film rating system has some flaws. But it used to be much dicier: Before the introduction of the PG-13 rating in 1984, parents really had no idea what their families were in for when they went to see a PG-rated film at the movies. Before you plan your next movie night, here's a list of PG-rated movies that may seem fun for your household but might not meet your appropriateness standards.

Beetlejuice (1988)

Even though a Saturday morning cartoon and Broadway musical have been built around Tim Burton's masterpiece about the titular character who claims he can rid houses of the living, it's difficult to recommend this film for family viewing. There are a few frightening scenes that traumatized '80s youth (myself included) and an f

-bomb that, while hilarious, feels out of place. Perhaps the upcoming sequel will be rated more appropriately.

Where to stream (without your kids):  Digital rental

Romeo and Juliet (1968)

I'm still not sure how this movie became a staple of high school English classes, especially now as the stars of this Oscar-winning adaptation of Shakespeare's romantic tale sued Paramount Pictures for more than $100 million, stating their nude scenes were filmed without their knowledge while they were minors. 

Where to stream (without your kids): Paramount+ with Showtime, Kanopy, Digital rental

Ghostbusters (1984)

My son has long requested that I introduce him to this classic film, which inspired a long-running cartoon and oodles of merchandising. Despite some salty language, chances are most of Bill Murray's jokes in this comedy/horror hybrid will go over the heads of your kid. But good luck explaining to your youngster why Dan Aykroyd seems so happy when a ghost unzips his pants. 

Where to stream (without your kids):  Peacock, Digital rental

Airplane (1980)

Plenty of pratfalls and other physical gags are in this classic send-up of disaster movies. It also features random nudity, jive talkin', glue sniffing, plenty of inappropriate jokes, and a pilot seemingly making sexual advances to a minor. 

Where to stream (without your kids): Paramount+ with Showtime, Pluto TV, Digital rental

Jaws (1975)

My shark-obsessed older son keeps asking me to show him Steven Spielberg's first entry on this list. However, I'm hesitant because his horror masterpiece starts with a nude swimmer who becomes the first victim of the titular killing machine—bloody, graphic violence and swearing like a sailor soon follow. 

Where to stream (without your kids):  Starz, Digital rental

Sixteen Candles (1984)

The bawdy '80s teen comedy, which depicts the hilarious and romantic goings-on that take place on Molly Ringwald's character's 16th birthday, was definitely a product of its time. Among its list of offenses that wouldn't pass muster today are implied date rape, frank sexual talk, and a racist depiction of a very horny Asian exchange student.

Where to stream (without your kids):  Prime Video, AMC+, Digital rental

James Bond Movies Through 1987

Sure, there's no chance my kids will understand why it is hilarious there is a character in a movie with the name of Pussy Galore. When they eventually see a Bond film, they will enjoy the non-stop action, thrilling car chases, and clever gadgets featured in the franchise's early films. I know I did as a kid. However, as an adult, I'm hesitant to introduce them to my boys because of their revealing title sequences and implied sex scenes. The rating board finally came to its senses when the mega-violent Licence to Kill received a PG-13 rating in 1989. 

Where to stream (without your kids): Digital rental

Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984)

As the legend goes, George Lucas pitched the character of Indiana Jones to Spielberg as an archeologist who is more interesting than James Bond. While Raiders of the Lost Ark reflects that intention, the darker Temple of Doom does not. The film's extreme violence (the scene where someone literally gets their heart ripped from their chest traumatized an entire generation) was one of the reasons for the introduction of the PG-13 rating. 

Where to stream (without your kids): Paramount+ with Showtime, Disney+, Pluto TV, Digital rental

Splash (1984)

Spielberg created a whole new rating, but Ron Howard's lighthearted comedy about a relationship between a man and a mermaid necessitated the creation of Touchstone Pictures, which the Disney company started with the intention of releasing more mature fare. The film has plenty of nudity (mostly essential to the plot) and enough sexual innuendo to make Walt's frozen head thaw a little.

Where to stream (without your kids): Disney+, Digital rental

Clash of the Titans (1981)

Since the effects in this classic swords and sandals epic about Perseus' voyage to save Princess Andromeda are a little dated, even for the '80s, it could make for an attractive alternative to the violent 2010 remake. However, a few of the character's robes come on and off, as there is some nudity and implied sex sprinkled throughout. 

Where to stream (without your kids): Digital rental

Barbarella (1968)

Speaking of dated effects, children may have a laugh or two at this '60s sci-fi classic starring Jane Fonda. Despite its rating, it's not really a kid's movie—there is plenty of nudity and sexual innuendo throughout this campy romp.

Where to stream (without your kids): Pluto TV, Digital rental

Poltergeist (1982)

Featuring a demonic tree, a toy clown that would give It's Pennywise the chills, the implication that a ghost is attempting to assault a mother sexually, and numerous other graphic and frightening images, Steven Spielberg's haunted house production Poltergeist (directed by the master of horror Tobe Hooper) is the final entry on this list for good reason. 

Where to stream (without your kids): Pluto TV

Welcome to "Best Summer Ever," your guide to making the most of the sunny season. Whether your idea of a perfect summer is embarking on epic adventures or blissfully doing as little as possible (preferably somewhere with good air conditioning), we've got you covered, because the best summer doesn't just happen. You have to make it happen.

With the price of everything seemingly increasing, budgets are getting tighter, so we might have less for all those toys and games our kids want while they're home this summer. While children of legal working age can simply get a job, it can be difficult for younger kids to earn money for that new toy or video game, especially now that paper routes are obsolete. There are still some ways for young ones to earn a little scratch this summer, though.

Let them unleash their crafty side

You may have heard friendship bracelets have come back into style thanks to a particular pop star. While "The Eras Tour" has completed its North American run, the bracelets are still popular among preteens eager to display their fandom of all things Swift, so much so that a bead shortage has been reported. 

If your child is hoarding these craft supplies, they can use them to assemble bracelets to sell to their friends. If jewelry isn't your kid's thing, they can make buttons, tie-dye some shirts, or even design wall art to make and sell. Children over 13 can even sell their wares on Etsy with a parent's permission. Encourage your child to consider the cost of materials and the time they spend on each item when setting their prices, helping them understand the value of their work.

Sell their old toys

If you've recently purged any toys your child no longer plays with from their room, they don't necessarily have to go to Goodwill. Plenty of second-hand and vintage playthings, particularly LEGO sets and bicycles, are in demand, and your child can sell them to friends or put them on eBay or Facebook Marketplace (with your help). Putting their toys up for sale can be an excellent opportunity for your kids to learn about the value of money, entrepreneurship, and the potential for profit. 

Tutor their friends (or rivals)

If your kid could teach you about fractions, algebra, or other scholarly subjects, they can help others around your neighborhood or in their class. In-person or remote tutoring will not only help others but also show kids that their time and knowledge are valuable and they should be compensated for their skills.

Dog-walking or pet-sitting

If your son or daughter is a pet lover, they can merge their enthusiasm for all things furry with their budding entrepreneurial skills by starting a dog-walking or pet-sitting business. Let them gain any needed experience by volunteering at a local shelter or helping friends or family with their four-legged friend's needs. Then, help them make flyers and other materials when they are ready to market their skills to the neighborhood.

Teach their friends how to play Minecraft

My oldest son just got into Minecraft, and he had plenty of questions for me about how to play it. I've taught both of my kids to play any game involving Mario, Luigi, or Link, but I don't even know where to begin with this pixelated sandbox game. However, plenty of experts in his circle of friends can impart their knowledge to him, and I would be more than happy to line their pockets with some dollars to help get him started. If your children are experts in building blocky worlds, they can sell their skills to newcomers in their neighborhood or at school.

Perform basic landscaping services

Caring for lawns and other essential landscaping services are always in demand. If your son or daughter wants to make some easy money this summer, have them go around your neighborhood and offer to mow someone's grass. If you prefer that they not go door to door, place an ad for them on the Nextdoor app instead.

Babysitting

Speaking of the Nextdoor app, plenty of parents market their children's caregiving skills to families needing time away from their young ones. Let other families in your area know your son or daughter is ready to lend a hand. Judging by the going rate for babysitters these days, your child will have a robust college fund in no time. 

Start a car-washing service

The conveyor car washes are getting expensive and never seem to clean your automobile just right, but doing it by hand isn't much fun, either. However, if your kid is willing to make a small investment in supplies, they can take advantage of the warm weather by washing vehicles around the neighborhood.

Show off their video game skills

Before your child buys a video game, chances are they've looked at several reviews and walkthroughs on YouTube before laying down their (or your) money. If they are over 13, they can post their reviews and strategy guides on their own YouTube channel. If their content catches on, they can monetize their work through advertising, subscriptions, and viewer donations on websites like Patreon. 

They can also stream their content on Twitch, and while it's unlikely they'll earn $350,000 a month like Tyler "Ninja" Blevins, they could stumble upon the next Fortnite and start attracting subscribers. 

Take an online survey or two

Websites like MyPoints and Swagbucks will pay a few bucks to those 13 and older to take surveys, with some even offering a signup bonus. Most only provide a couple of bucks for a few minutes of work, but it can add up over the course of a summer. 

Collect recycling

Recycling centers offer cash for collecting cans, bottles, and other recyclables. Not only will your kids make a few bucks by sweeping the neighborhood for soda cans, but it will also make your little corner of the world look a little nicer.