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Where to Watch
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
1982 · Movie · 115 min · PG
Primary lesson · Empathy can overcome fear of the unfamiliar
Why It’s Worth Watching
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial uses a child's friendship with an alien as a way to explore empathy, loneliness, family disruption, responsibility, and the instinct to fear what we do not understand. Elliott's bond with E.T. also gives families a memorable way to discuss helping someone vulnerable, keeping trust, handling separation, and why compassion can matter even when adults or institutions react with suspicion.
Who it's for
Ages & Chapters
Suggested viewing age
5+
Best learning window
6–12
Best discussion ages
8–13
Before you press play
Parent Guidance
Heads up level
Moderate
Content notes
Family separation, illness, government pursuit, frightening medical scenes, and emotional farewell.
Context for parents
The emotional intensity rises significantly late in the film; children sensitive to separation or illness may need reassurance.
More title details▾
- Era
- 1980s
- Language
- English
- Origin
- United States
What it teaches
Lessons & Learning Areas
Primary lesson
Empathy can overcome fear of the unfamiliar
Secondary lessons
Strongest learning areas
After the credits
Discussion Questions
- 1
Why does Elliott trust E.T. before the adults do?
- 2
How does Elliott's family situation affect his emotions?
- 3
What responsibilities come with protecting someone vulnerable?
Take it further
Family Experience
Activity
Write a simple 'helping someone new' checklist: observe, ask, listen, help safely.
Real-world challenge
Include someone who seems left out in one activity this week.
Parent follow-up
Talk about empathy while still reinforcing that children should involve trusted adults in real dangerous situations.
Discovery
Where It Sits
Generation
Mood
Life stage
Lesson tags
Genre