Common Sense Note

Parents need to know that, compared to today's visually stunning special effects, Star Trek: The Original Series was very low-budget in both props and special effects and may consequently seem silly to modern kids. But beyond that, the series was a metaphor for the upheaval of the 1960s. Behind the storylines of space travel and aliens are important social commentaries on racism, sexism, politics, and the fear that machines might one day rule the world. Taken at face value, though, most of the adventures are pretty innocent and are fine for young tweens and up.

Sexual Content

Women wear skimpy, skin-tight outfits (with mini-skirts and go-go boots). Some alien races portray women as subservient, while others have women in power. Crew members often flirt -- most notably, Capt. Kirk, who falls in love quite often. Some kissing (including a groundbreaking interracial kiss between Kirk and Uhura).

Violence

Most episodes include some fighting, be it characters physically wrestling each other or using "phasers" (their weapons) or photon torpedoes. But blood is never shown. Mind control is a frequent plotpoint.

Language

Mild overall. "Dammit, Jim!" -- uttered by Bones -- occurs in many episodes.

Social Behavior

The show's overall message is to respect one another's differences. Storylines often revolve around alien races with different social norms than humans (sexism, racism, politics), but the Enterprise crew isn't supposed to interfere.

Consumerism

Lots of Star Trek products out there, but nothing in the show itself.

Drugs / Tobacco / Alcohol

Some drinking by adults in social settings. Scotty is often involved in drinking contests with other humans and aliens.