Is Family Ties appropriate for children?

# Family Ties - Parent Guide This TV-PG comedy follows liberal parents raising their surprisingly conservative son and other children through various growing-up situations. With no violence, profanity, or sexual content, it's generally safe family viewing that offers both humor and gentle lessons about family dynamics and differing values.

What age is Family Ties suitable for?

Our verdict for Family Ties is: Generally safe. See the age grid on this page for specific recommendations by age group.

Is Family Ties safe for children? | ScreenWise Parent Guide

Content breakdown

🔫

Violence

Mild

🗣️

Language / Profanity

None

🔞

Sexual Content

None

👻

Horror / Scary

None

About this TV show

Type

TV Show

Released

1982

Rating

TV-PG

Genre

Comedy, Drama, Family

Synopsis

Former 1960s flower children Steven and Elyse Keaton raise their conservative son Alex, daughters Mallory and Jennifer, and later, youngest child Andrew.

Cast

Meredith Baxter

Elyse Keaton

Michael Gross

Steven Keaton

Michael J. Fox

Alex P. Keaton

Justine Bateman

Mallory Keaton

Full cast on IMDb ›

Stimulus level

Low stimulus

A 1980s sitcom with natural dialogue-driven scenes and minimal visual effects, though the laugh track and scene transitions are faster than shows specifically designed for infants and toddlers.

Stimulus rating reflects pacing, visual complexity, and sensory intensity — factors associated with attention development in children under 3. Learn more

Age suitability

Under 6

Not yet

Ages 6–8

With parent

Ages 9–12

Yes

Ages 13+

Yes

Where to watch

🎬 Find on Amazon

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Parents also checked

Ratings based on MPAA/TV classification and TMDB metadata. Updated March 2026.
Every child is different — always preview content for your family's specific needs.