So, what’s the play? Don’t ban it. That’s like trying to hide cookies from a bear. Instead, watch an episode with them. Make fun of the dramatic music. Point out when a character makes a really dumb decision (they do, often). It’s a perfect chance to say, “See? Even in a perfect beach house, life gets messy.”
And if they ask you about your own “summer I turned pretty” story? Be ready. Laugh. Tell them about the time you thought a boy with a mullet was the love of your life. They’ll roll their eyes, but they’ll also listen. That’s the whole point of a parents’ guide. It’s not about controlling the remote; it’s about being there, laughing at the weird parts, and letting the story do the talking. Now, go grab some lemonade and press play. You’ve got this.
