Learning You is a 2026 American dramedy inspired by true events, blending heartfelt family drama with light comedic touches. Directed by Tyler Sansom and written to honor parents and caregivers of special-needs children, the film stars Caleb Milby, Stacy Haiduk, John Wells, Seth Phrampus, Daniel Roebuck, and Cameron Arnett.
The story follows Ty Smith, a struggling architect and father whose marriage ended years earlier. During a difficult holiday season, Ty must decide whether to surrender his autistic son, Elijah, to state care or fight to rebuild their relationship. A spontaneous Christmas road trip becomes the catalyst for healing, helped—and sometimes complicated—by Elijah’s imaginary life-sized bear companion, Nook.
The film is based on real experiences and aims to highlight autism awareness, acceptance, and the emotional journey of families navigating special needs. Learning You is distributed by FaithChannel Distribution and will be released in U.S. theaters on January 16, 2026.
Learning You Age Rating
Learning You is officially rated PG for thematic content including suicide-related material. While the tone is warm, emotional, and family-centered, the film deals with sensitive topics around parenting stress, emotional overwhelm, and discussions that may be unsettling for very young viewers. The rating reflects serious themes rather than graphic content.
Violence & Peril
The film contains no physical violence or frightening action. Moments of emotional intensity arise from heated arguments, breakdowns, and scenes of parental distress. A brief but serious reference to suicide-related thoughts appears, presented in a somber and responsible context. Some scenes depict heightened anxiety or fear related to caring for a child with high support needs, but nothing graphic or visually disturbing occurs.
Language
The language in Learning You remains mild and suitable for a PG audience. Characters express frustration or emotional strain, but profanity is minimal or absent. No crude jokes, slurs, or offensive remarks appear. Dialogue focuses instead on heartfelt conversations, misunderstandings, and emotional repair.
Mature Themes
The film explores topics such as family breakdown, abandonment fears, parental guilt, emotional burnout, and the challenges of raising a child with autism. A suicide-related thematic moment is handled sensitively and without graphic detail. Themes around neurodiversity, social struggles, and emotional regulation are woven throughout the story. There is no sexual content, violence, drug use, or inappropriate humor. The emotional depth may resonate strongly with children who have similar experiences in their families.
Is Learning You Suitable for Kids?
Ages 6–9: With Guidance. Younger children may enjoy the presence of Nook, the imaginary bear companion, but the heavier emotional themes—especially discussions about surrendering a child to state care and references to suicide-related feelings—may be difficult to process. Parental presence is strongly recommended.
Ages 10–12: Yes, With Guidance. Kids in this age range can follow the story’s emotional arc and understand its message about family and acceptance. Sensitive scenes should still be discussed afterward, especially those involving parental desperation or emotional overwhelm.
Ages 13+: Yes. Teens can comfortably watch the film and will likely appreciate its realistic, compassionate portrayal of autism and parent-child relationships. The content is thoughtful, warm, and meaningful, making it appropriate for middle schoolers and up.
Final Recommendation: Best suited for ages 10 and older, with parental guidance for younger viewers.
What Parents Can Do
• Prepare kids for emotional themes, especially the reference to suicide-related feelings and discussions about the challenges of raising a child with autism.
• Explain autism in age-appropriate terms so children can better understand Elijah’s behaviors and Ty’s struggles.
• Encourage a conversation afterward about empathy, patience, and how families grow through challenges together.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Learning You?
A: The film is rated PG for thematic content including suicide-related material.
Q: Is Learning You appropriate for kids?
A: Yes, for most children 10 and older. Younger children may need guidance due to emotional themes.
Q: Does the film contain violence or scary scenes?
A: No physical violence or frightening imagery is included, though emotional moments may feel intense.
Q: Is there any strong language?
A: No. Language remains mild throughout.
Q: Is there sexual content or suggestive material?
A: None. The film focuses strictly on family relationships and emotional drama.
Q: Where can I watch Learning You?
A: The film will be released in U.S. theaters on January 16, 2026 via FaithChannel Distribution. (Official Website: Learning You)