The toddler stage is both exciting and challenging. It’s incredible to watch tots foster their curiosity, lean into their personalities, and make strides toward independence. It’s also, let’s face it, exhausting to keep them entertained and tantrum-free on a regular basis. So whether you need ideas to add to your daily schedule or a quick fix in an emergency, these 10-minute or less toddler activities are easy ways to have bursts of fun anytime, anywhere.
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1. Have a Dance Party
Throw on some music and dance it out. Choose from our roundup of the best Spotify playlists, and spike your heart rate to a family-friendly tune. It’s also a great way to shake things up when your little one is feeling grumpy.
2. Act Out a Book
While reading a book together is always a good idea, acting one out could be even more fun. If your toddler has a favorite book they’re obsessed with, dig into the dress-up box and have them try to act out a live-action version.
3. Play Simon Says
Play this old favorite but with a twist. We love using Simon Says to help pick up a messy room. Simon says, “Put your toy in the chest” is a parenting hack that clears clutter while entertaining toddlers.
5. Act Like an Animal
Get wild with this one! Ask your child what their favorite animal is and encourage them to play a quick animal action game. Challenge your child to move like the animal, running, crawling, leaping, lumbering, or slithering like a furry, feathered, or scaled friend.
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6. Play Hide-and-Seek with Stuffies
If you don’t have the energy to squeeze behind the couch or want to play hide and seek in a small space, try playing with one of your toddlers’ favorite stuffed animals.
7. Throw a Bath Party
Ain’t no party like a bathtub party! Turn off the lights, toss in the glow sticks and bubble wands, and crank the music.
8. Play Eye-Spy
It’s a time-tested classic and a traditional game that just about every child plays at some point or another. It’s also easily adaptable, requires no materials, and takes almost no time to complete. Put a twist on the same old game and set up your “I Spy” with a theme. Pick a letter (all things that begin with “B”), a color (only purple objects), or any other focus that your kiddo can dream up.
9. Have A Puzzle Marathon
Break out two or three of your toddler’s favorite puzzles and set a timer to see how fast you can complete them all.
10. Play Florist
Collect branches, ferns, and a few blooms and arrange them in a pretty vase or jar. Toddlers also love playing shop, so make believe you’re their first satisfied customer.
11. Play Follow the Leader
Get creative with the classic “follow the leader” game. Choose a theme (such as acting like animals or moving like snowflakes), create super-silly walks, or explore outside with a follow-the-leader nature walk.
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12. Create a Card for a Loved One
Surprise a friend or relative with a homemade card from you and your toddler. They’ll have fun stamping, coloring, and creating a fun design, and the recipient will be thrilled with the surprise mail.
13. Wash Windows Together
Their willingness to help with household chores wanes as they get older, so take advantage of your toddler’s excitement for spraying and wiping and get some sparkling windows in the process.
14. Tic Tac Toe
When it comes to toddler activities, the paper and pencil version of this classic is always fun. Or try spicing it up by hunting for objects to serve as x’s and o’s.
15. Play Red Light, Green Light
Strengthen their listening skills with a quick game of Red Light Green Light. In addition to being fun, you can talk to your toddler about the importance of following instructions, a skill their preschool teacher will certainly appreciate.
This may be true every year, but this time, we mean it: 2024 is THE year of the sequel. It appears nearly every film-favorite character—from Michael Keaton’s nostalgic bio-exorcist to Jack Black’s kung fu-fighting panda, to Disney’s Kings of the Pride Lands—is furthering their storyline on the big screen. No bother to us, though—we are here for it!
Ahead, we break down the new family movies in 2024 that you and your littles can enjoy together. They start early next year and continue through the ball drop, so no matter when the kids utter those dreaded two words, “We’re bored,” there’s a family-friendly title just waiting to whisk them away to another time and place. Plus, we all know there’s nothing a bucket of buttered popcorn and a great story can’t resolve.
"Kung Fu Panda 4"
Universal Studios
Everyone's favorite kung fu master panda, Po, returns to the screen after nearly a decade for another adventure—this time with a clever corsac fox as his sidekick. On the cusp of becoming the Spiritual Leader of the Valley of Peace, Po must train someone to take his place as the Dragon Warrior, priming the two floofs for a knockout action comedy the whole family will love.
Starring: Jack Black, Awkwafina, Viola Davis, Dustin Hoffman, James Hong, Bryan Cranston, Ian McShane and Ke Huy Quan
Rated: PG
Theatrical release: March 8, 2024
"Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire"
Sony Pictures
Fans of The Real Ghostbusters animated series are in for a treat with the latest installment of the Ghostbusters franchise. According to one of its stars, Kumail Nanjiani, the action comedy will play out like a feature-length episode of the cartoon. The gist? It's summertime, but a massive cold spell is threatening another Ice Age. So, who they gonna call? You got it.
Starring: Carrie Coon, Mckenna Grace, Annie Potts, Paul Rudd, Bill Murray, Celeste O'Conner, Dan Aykroyd, Finn Wolfhard, Kumail Nanjiani
Rated: PG-13
Theatrical release: March 29, 2024
"The Ark and the Aardvark"
Unified Pictures
A silly animated affair with a religious bent, The Ark and the Aardvark follows the dictionary's leading animal on a quest to get a ragtag group of mammals onto an ark. His name is Gilbert, and he's an outcast among the animal kingdom, but his reluctant mission to save his buddies from impending doom leads the ant-eating cutie to believe in himself and the power of one.
Starring: Aubrey Plaza, Miles Teller, Jenny Slate, Rob Riggle, Craig Robinson, Stephen Merchant, and Charlie Tom
Meet Thabo, an 11-year-old Sherlock Holmes who calls a peaceful savannah in an African village home. Though he loves sharing the grassy reserve with elephants, giraffes, and rhinos, he's thirsting for a really good mystery to solve. One day, when he spots a rhino that was killed for its horn, he gets his wish. A beautiful way to introduce little ones to heavy issues including animal rights and poaching, Thabo is a thoughtful and fun new kids' movie the whole family will love.
Starring: Litlhohonolofatso Litlhakayane, Ava Skuratowski, Kumkani Pilonti, Nissi Bodibe, Vitihari Sibisi, Andrea Sawatzki, and Kenneth Nkosi
Rated: PG
Theatrical release: May 3, 2024
"IF"
Paramount Pictures
Hey, moms, remember Drop Dead Fred? Think of this new kids' movie as its cuter, more ingenious modern offering for your kids. The title of this new family movie is an acronym that stands for Imaginary Friends, and it's the latest from writer/director/The Office alum John Krasinski. About a dad and daughter who discover a world of pretend playmates left behind by their grown-up companions, this family movie coming in 2024 is a wealth of talent wrapped into a brilliant family-friendly fantasy.
Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Cailey Fleming, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, Awkwafina, Steve Carell, Maya Rudolph
Rated: TBD
Theatrical release: May 17, 2024
"The Garfield Movie"
Columbia Pictures
The Garfield canon is bursting at the seams with specials, remakes, and reboots, but the latest in the fat-cat anthology takes a new approach, providing origin stories for both how toon town's OG orange feline met his hooman, John Arbuckle, and who his father is, a gray cool cat named Vic. Of course, you don't have to be a cat person to enjoy this animated addition—just a fan of whimsical charm and hilarious hijinks.
Starring: Chris Pratt, Samuel L. Jackson, Hannah Waddingham, Nicholas Hoult, Cecily Strong, Brett Goldstein, and Bowen Yang
Spanish director Pablo Berger's Robot Dreams was a surprise nominee at this year's Oscars. It lost the best-animated film award to The Boy and the Heron, but that doesn't make it any less magical. About a city pup who orders a companion robot to stave off loneliness, the '80s-set musical has little dialogue but oodles of charm. It's one of those viewing experiences that will entertain all the eyeballs in the room, but go a step further with the adults and have them crying buckets.
Starring: Ivan Labanda, Albert Trifol Segarra, Rafa Calvo, Jose Garcia Tos, Jose Luis Mediavilla, Graciela Molina, and Esther Solans
Rated: NR
Theatrical release: May 31, 2024
"Inside Out 2"
Pixar Studios
Pixar rarely misses, and the studio's original Inside Out managed to leave all the uppity Cannes Film Festival buffs in fits of tears. Now that's an accomplishment! With the second iteration, protag Riley has entered teen-dom, and Joy, the bright-eyed leader of her inner spectrum of feels, faces a new era, as a demolition team makes room in their headquarters for new, more complex emotions—like the dreaded anxiety. Oh, and Riley is barreling toward puberty.
Starring: Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, Tony Hale, Liza Lapira, Maya Hawke, and Lewis Black
Rated: PG
Theatrical release: June 14, 2024
"Despicable Me 4"
Illumination Studios
Gru and his adorable family are back for another vibrant animated escapade on the big screen. Though the fourth film's premise remains locked behind tight lips at the moment, you can almost definitely expect the introduction of a new super-villain, plenty of Minions mockery, and a world-saving toon-venture that only Gru and his kiddos can take care of.
Starring: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Miranda Cosgrove, Steve Coogan, and Pierre Coffin
The children's picture book, on which this new family movie coming to theaters in 2024 is based, was published in 1955. Written and illustrated by Crockett Johnson, it's a wonderfully magical story about a little boy who goes on a nightlong odyssey through the woods, over the sea, and past dragons—all imagined with his singular purple coloring stick. Here's hoping the newest adaptation is just as imaginative.
Starring: Zachary Levi, Zooey Deschanel, Lil Rel Howery, Camille Guaty, Tanya Reynolds, Ravi Patel, and Caleb Black
Rated: PG
Theatrical release: August 2, 2024
"Beetlejuice Beetlejuice"
Plan B Entertainment
It's finally showtime! After years of rewrites and delays caused by the pandemic and writers' strikes, the sequel to Tim Burton's 1989 hit afterlife comedy is just months away from possessing the big screen. And a lot has changed: Beetlejuice is now married, Lydia has a daughter, and there's a new detective in the Netherworld—one who might be able to tell us more about how the freelance bio-exorcist bit the big one.
Starring: Catherine O'Hara, Jenna Ortega, Monica Bellucci, Winona Ryder, Michael Keaton, Willem Dafoe, Justin Theroux, and Juliana Yazbeck
Based on Peter Brown's award-winning children's book, The Wild Robot tells the story of Roz, an intelligent hunk of metal plopped into the great outdoors where only Mother Nature's creatures dwell. Unsure of why she's there, Roz learns to adapt and wins over the animals' friendship, until her past threatens to destroy everything. A comment on the intersection of nature, technology, and acceptance, this is just the first tale in a series of three. So we may expect sequels in the future.
Starring: Lupita Nyong'o, Pedro Pascal, Catherine O'Hara, Bill Nighy, Stephanie Hsu, Kit Connor, Alexandra Novelle, Ving Rhames, Mark Hamill, and Matt Berry
The lovable, marmalade-crazed bear whose iconic blue duffle coat, impeccable manners, and twee English accent win over hearts every time he makes an appearance is getting another chapter in his self-titled film franchise. Always rife with adventure, the Paddington movies are as charming as they are fun to look at, and this Brown family addition is no different, as the P-bear and his humans head to his native Peru to visit his Aunt Lucy, unaware of the mystery that awaits them.
Starring: Olivia Colman, Antonio Banderas, Imelda Staunton, Jim Broadbent, Emily Mortimer, Ben Whishaw, Julie Walters, and Hugh Bonneville
An adaptation of the 1972 best-selling family book by Barbara Robinson, this humorous holiday film is sure to bring the necessary cheer and laughter this next season. It's about the Herdman siblings, a group of misbehaving misfits who take over their church's annual pageant and, to everyone's surprise, deliver a show about the true meaning of Christmas. This is one kids' movie coming out that we're especially excited to see.
Starring: Lauren Graham, Judy Greer, Elizabeth Tabish, Pete Holmes, Stephanie Sy, Lorelei Olivia Mote, Molly Belle Wright, and Matthew Lamb
Rated: TBD
Theatrical release: November 15, 2024
"Red One"
Every year, Christmas comes under attack. And every year, its saving is hoisted upon someone's shoulders. This year, that job falls to two someones: an E.L.F. (Extremely Large and Formidable) operative and an expert tracker. Their goal: to find Santa and rescue him from the clutches of a villain with no holiday spirit. According to Dwayne Johnson, who stars as the E.L.F. op, you can expect an action comedy that's a mix of Jumanji, Miracle on 34th Street, and It's a Wonderful Life.
Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans, Kristofer Hivju, Kiernan Shipka, J.K. Simmons, Bonnie Hunt, Mary Elizabeth Ellis, Nick Kroll, and Gabriel Rodriguez
When news that Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande were starring as Elphaba and Glinda in the movie version of the award-winning Broadway play Wicked, mics dropped the world over. Thankfully, we don't have long to wait to see what these tonsil powerhouses can do with the musical that spills the details about how two friends became adversaries in the Land of Oz. The tale will be stretched over two parts, with the first movie coming to theaters in late 2024.
Starring: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Michelle Yeoh, Marissa Bode, Ethan Slater, Jeff Goldblum, and Bowen Yang.
Rated: TBD
Theatrical release: November 27, 2024
"Moana 2"
Walt Disney Studios
Your favorite seafaring voyager is back. This time her wayfaring ancestors are sending her even further from the shore. Namely, Oceania, where the waters are perilous and the adventure is action-packed. Those are about the only plot details we have so far, but don't worry, November will be here before we know it and we'll all be bopping along to tunes sung by Auli'i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson, both of whom are reprising their roles as Moana and the demigod Maui, respectively.
Starring: Auli'i Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, and Alan Tudyk, with more to be announced soon.
Rated: TBD
Theatrical release: November 27, 2024
"The Untitled Karate Kid Movie"
In 2010, producers resurrected the beloved, butt-kicking '80s franchise with a modern retelling of a fish out of water who embraces the teachings of a kung fu master. Fourteen years later, the dōjō is again open for big-screen business. Fans of the martial artsfranchise are probably familiar with Netflix's Cobra Kai, which has continued the Karate Kid-verse with aplomb, so it will be interesting to see how the new movie ties into those events—if at all.
Starring: Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan, Ming-Na Wen, Joshua Jackson, Sadie Stanley, and Ben Wang
Rated: TBD
Theatrical release: December 13, 2024
"Sonic the Hedgehog 3"
Paramount Pictures
He's blue, he's fast, he's full of one-liners as quick-witted as his feet, and he's back for another blazing romp. In this new family movie for 2024, Sega's iconic hero, along with his pals Tails and Knuckles, embarks on an adventure that picks up where the second film left off. Word is conflict will come in the form of Shadow the Hedgehog, who appeared in the last movie's mid-credits stinger.
Starring: Ben Schwartz, Idris Elba, Colleen O'Shaughnessey, Cristo Fernández, Tika Sumpter, Tom Butler, James Marsden, Alyla Browne, and Jim Carrey
The story of Mufasa picks up after the events of the original, with Simba parenting a cub of his own. It also serves as a prequel, as it looks back on the legend of Mufasa, the original king of the Pride Lands. Another of Disney's live-action films, this one will also be styled with photorealistic, computer-generated animals, like the 2019 version starring the voice of Beyoncé. Fingers crossed Queen Bey is on the marquee for this soon-to-be hit, too.
Starring: Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., and John Kani, with more to come.
Ah, the ever-elusive concept of time. It’s like a ninja—stealthily slipping away when you’re not looking but stubbornly dragging on when you’re trying to entertain a restless toddler or engage an uninterested tween. Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of fun play ideas for kids of all ages that won’t take longer than a snack break. From magic tricks to a game of animal charades, these activities are guaranteed to make 20 minutes feel like a flash. And who knows, the memories made during these mini-adventures might just become cherished family stories down the road.
Play Ideas for Kids Age 2-4
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Notoriously known for having zero attention span, toddlers can lose interest quickly, so filling 20 minutes with engaging activities isn’t always easy. These quick-fix ideas help turn any idle time into a burst of fun.
1. Play I-Spy. This classic game stands the test of time and helps toddlers better understand their surroundings. It’s also easily adaptable, requires no materials, and takes almost no time to complete. Put a twist on the same old game and set up your “I Spy” with a theme. Pick a letter (all things that begin with “B”), a color (only purple objects), or any other focus that your kiddo can dream up.
2. Stack Stuff. Watch your little one learn hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and problem-solving skills by just stacking stuff. Whether it’s cups or blocks, they’ll have a blast figuring out balance and stability.
3. Have a Dance Party. Throw on some music and dance it out. Choose from our roundup of the best Spotify playlists, and spike your heart rate to a family-friendly tune. It’s also a great way to shake things up when your little one is feeling grumpy.
4. Play Follow the Leader. Get creative with this old-school favorite. Choose a theme (such as acting like animals or moving like snowflakes), create super-silly walks, or explore outside with a follow-the-leader nature walk.
Ideas for Ages 4-6
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Preschoolers are curious, and their imagination is always running at warp speed. It’s a great time to introduce play ideas that activate their love of make-believe. Unchanged: Preschoolers are curious, and their imagination is always running at warp speed. It’s a great time to introduce play ideas that activate their love of make-believe.
4. Act out a book. While reading a book together is always a good idea, acting one out could be even more fun. If your toddler has a favorite book they’re obsessed with, dig into the dress-up box and have them try to act out a live-action version.
5. Have your little one stay in character when you play a quick game of animal charades. No prep is necessary for this easy guessing game. Just pick your favorite animal and go for it. With each successful guess, trade places and start again. Ee-i-ee-i-o!
6. Create a card for a loved one. Surprise a friend or relative with a homemade card from you and your toddler. They’ll have fun stamping, coloring, and creating a fun design, and the recipient will be thrilled with the surprise mail.
Play Ideas for Kids Ages 6-8
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It’s no surprise that recess is this group’s favorite time of day. Grade school kids need to run and unleash energy, so killing 20 minutes is easy when you have open space to move. Here are some fun activities to keep moving and even a few for when they need to sit still.
7. Play freeze tag. The person who is “it” tries to tag the others. Once you’ve been tagged, you have to stand (frozen in the position you were in when you were tagged) until another “untagged” person can tag you to free you.
8. Create a Scavenger Hunt. Whether you pull a pre-organized list off the internet or create your own, enjoy watching your grade-schooler expend some serious energy while hunting for one item after another.
9. Play a minute to win it game. This age set loves a timer and since every phone has one you can break out a minute to win it game just about anywhere. From ball drop to sponge run, we’ve got a full list of games that take 60 seconds or less and are sure to make time fly.
10. Have fun with jokes. Laughter really is the best medicine. Telling jokes is an instant mood booster, so whether you’re stuck in traffic or waiting in the orthodontist’s office, tap into some of our favorite belly-laughing jokes. We even have a best-of-summer roundup!
Play Ideas for Kids Ages 10-12
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Avoid the dreaded “I’m bored” phrase by suggesting one of these activities to your soon-to-be middle schoolers.
12. Conversation starters. Jumping into a good discussion with tweens isn’t always seamless, but these conversation starters can help. Try using this one right before dinner—If you could make any vegetable against the law, which would it be? Just be ready for their answer!
13.Play “Exquisite Corpse,” where you create a story together. Decide on a theme and have the first person write a phrase or sentence. The next person continues the story by writing the next sentence or phrase, using the last word or phrase from the previous person’s contribution. Continue taking turns until you have a complete story.
14. Learn a magic trick. Start with the simple paper-clip trick and keep moving through this entire list of tricks.
15. Play Name that Tune—and let them pick the music! It’s a great way to get your kiddo to talk more about what they’re into and for you to add some variety to your playlist.
The Best Ideas for Teens
Trying to get your teen to put down their phone and engage in conversation is like trying to teach a cat to swim – it’s not impossible, but it sure feels like it sometimes! The good news is, once you do, they’re happy you did it and more likely to form healthy habits around screen usage.
15. Play a game of “20 Questions”. Get more insight into your teen’s mind and thought process with this classic game you can play anywhere, anytime. It also fosters strategic thinking and is a game of deduction and logic that will be very satisfying for your ever-growing tween.
16. Play Wordle or do a mini crossword. Want to engage and still use the phone? We suggest pairing up to solve everyone’s favorite word puzzles.
17. Boost their confidence. Sometimes just letting them know you’re proud of them can lead to the best discussions. Here are 30 positive things to say to your favorite almost-teen when they don’t feel like talking.
18. Trivia for Tweens and Teens. From who is the half-blooded prince to who is the oldest gamer on YouTube, we’ve rounded up some of the most intriguing trivia questions for teens (and tweens) that are guaranteed to keep them entertained.
Hop into spring with these Easter movies that are perfect for kids. From Easter Parade to The Dog Who Saved Easter—and everything in between—put these stories on your movie night bucket list, stat. You’ll find these Easter movies on Disney+, Netflix, and more of your favorite streaming choices. Keep reading for our favorite Easter movies for kids that are sure to delight your Flopsy, Mopsy, and Peter Cottontails.
Hop
Hop may just give the adults in the room a case of the jitters, but the movie is cute enough—and who doesn’t love Russell Brand, after all—that we can get beyond the main coming-of-age theme (Really, don’t give them any ideas about growing up, and maybe it just won’t happen, right?). This animated flick is about the relationship between the Easter Bunny and his adult(ish) son who moves to Hollywood to pursue his dream of being a rock star.
Recommended for ages 5 & older
Universal Pictures, 2011
Common Sense Media Review: Hop
Rated PG
Loaded with great Irving Berlin songs, this 1948 musical is wholesome, straightforward, and entertaining. Known as “The Happiest Musical Ever Made,” you and the kiddos will be tap-dancing your way to your nearest Easter parade with high expectations.
Recommended for ages 6 & up
MGM/UA, 1948
Common Sense Media Review: Easter Parade
Not rated
Looking for a classic comedy with an Easter theme? Look no further. These cartoons are strung together and are united by what you’d most likely expect—a set of bunny ears and plenty of slapstick humor.
Recommended for ages 5 & up
Warner Home Video, 2010
Common Sense Media Review: Bugs Bunny Easter Funnies
Not rated
For a non-religious story about Easter, this animated musical tale will remind you of classics like Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. But get ready—after watching this Easter movie for kids, your littles will be code red for dying eggs and frolicking in the grass.
Recommended for ages 3 & up
Warner Home Video, 2010
Common Sense Media Review: The First Easter Rabbit
Not rated
When Wallace’s attempt to re-program rabbits to NOT eat the town’s veggies goes wrong, the iconic duo is faced with an ever bigger challenge—dealing with a were-rabbit. Parents should be warned that there are somewhat scary scenes of a cute rabbit transformation ala werewolf style, and like classic horror movies (think Frankenstein) the townspeople hunt the monster with guns. Overall, a fun movie for older kids.
While this version of Peter Rabbit may be a bit edgier and more action-packed than the stories you remember from the classic Beatrix Potter books, you’ll still find Old Mr. McGregor, Peter, and all the animals on the McGregor farm. But don’t expect a peaceable kingdom—life’s tough if you’re on the run, and Peter relies on his street smarts to survive. And if you haven’t seen Peter Rabbit 2, this might be the perfect opportunity for a double feature!
Recommended for ages 7 & older
Columbia Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, 2012
Common Sense Media Review: Peter Rabbit
Rated PG
If you’ve fallen in love with retriever Zeus in any of the previous Dog movies, you won’t be disappointed in The Dog Who Saved Easter. Expect plenty of humor, a lot of cuteness, and a touch of puppy love (for humans and dogs, alike) in this Easter movie for kids.
Recommended for ages 6 & up
Digital Filmz International, 2014
Common Sense Media Review: The Dog Who Saved Easter
Rated PG
This Rankin-Bass classic is perfect for preschoolers not already disdainful of low-tech special effects and jerky stop-action animation. If your kiddos can see past the lack of flashy animation, they’re in for a wholesome treat.
Recommended for ages 4 & up
Classic Media, 1971
Common Sense Media Review: Here Comes Peter Cottontail
Not rated
You can expect all of Yogi’s usual antics, like stealing picnic baskets and wreaking havoc on the Easter Jamboree at Jellystone, in this classic Hannah-Barbera holiday hit.
Recommended for all ages
Hannah-Barbera, 1994
Common Sense Media Review: None
Not rated
When a streetwise bunny discovers that the mythical Rabbit School is real, he starts on a journey of self-discovery and finds that no matter your past, you can make a change for the better. Will Max gain Easter Bunny status?
While this isn’t an obvious Easter-themed movie, it does feature a pretty strong rabbit lead. This fast-paced tale tells the story of police rabbit Judy Hopps who is determined to see her investigation through, no matter what. The message of courage, tolerance, and teamwork comes through tons of memorable characters and lots of laughs.
Recommended for ages 8 & up
Disney, 2016
Common Sense Media Review: Zootopia
Rated PG
Ok. This is decidedly NOT an Easter movie, but if you’re looking for something heavy on entertainment as well as rabbits, this is your jam. Combining live-action and animation, Roger Rabbit is a detective story with hilarious twists and double-crosses.
Recommended for ages 12 & up
Touchstone Pictures, 1988
Common Sense Media Review: Who Framed Roger Rabbit?
Rated PG
While this classic story takes place during Christmas, the central characters are bunnies, and you can’t beat the sweetness of this story. Based on the book by Margery Williams about a soft rabbit—and his buddies—that comes to life—it is a story about an only child finding a world of imagination, where love makes you who you are.
Recommended for ages 5 & up
Family1 Films, 2009
Common Sense Media Review: The Velveteen Rabbit
Rated G
What happens when Rabbit decides to replace Easter with Spring Cleaning Day? His pals from the Hundred Acre Wood—led by little Roo—come to the rescue and help Rabbit see the error of his ways, of course!
The villain Bad Clyde has cast an evil spell that banishes the Benny Easter Bunny to the Land of the Holiday Misfits, it’s up to Santa Claus and a few sidekicks to travel from the North Pole across realms to rescue Benny and save Easter for all the children.
Recommended for ages 4 & up
Gravitas Adventures, 2019
Common Sense Media Review: none
Rated G
From the must-have Paw Patrol air carrier to cool book bundles, your busy kids will love these holiday gift ideas.
Parents of preschoolers know this stage is all about curiosity, exploration, and boundless energy. If you’re on the hunt for the just-right gifts that balance and encourage this playful combo—start with this list. From books that spark imagination to a scavenger hunt game that gets them outside, these innovative holiday gifts for 4-5-year-olds hit the mark. Need something for a different age? Check out our guides to the best gifts for 6-9 year-olds, tweens, and even stocking stuffers!
With a flash of light, these whimsical fairies come to life! Kids can control their movements with their hands and they can be released again and again.
Arrange and connect in just about any way, over anything! Can kids make the foam balls move from tube to tube? Can they use enough force to make them spin?
The ultimate holiday toy for a preschooler who loves to whip up a good meal. Whether they feel like making steak, pizza, corn, or veggie burgers, this pretend-play outdoor kitchen has what they need.
Tots with a need for speed will adore this speedy 4-in-1 Zig-Zag Raceway™ and electronic SmartPoint stunt car. They can rev up imaginative play and lessons around first words, fun tunes, phrases about feelings, and cool sound effects by cruising over three SmartPoint areas.
A must-have toy for preschoolers in 2023, they’ll love the dual vehicle launchers and Chase figure that comes with this aircraft carrier from Paw Patrol: The Might Movie.
Make screen time smarter with a kid-safe, ad-free app for ages 2-7. The Noggin Learning app is so easy, and it's the gift that keeps on giving. Build math, reading, wellness, social & emotional skills with 1000+ educational games, videos, and books starring your little one's favorite characters.
This dress is one that they'll want to wear over and over again. And, with JACADI's heirloom-quality pieces, they'll be able to. We also love the ultra-festive bold hues that are perfect for any holiday party.
An outdoor swing, but with a little sailing style thrown in for good measure. Perfect for two kiddos, it comes with adjustable, durable nylon ropes and O-rings for easy installation.
Your preschool kid might be a little too young for video games, but they’re never too young to love Super Mario Bros. With this board game, they get to enjoy the characters while having screen-free fun.
No preschool gift guide would be complete without Hot Wheels! This multi-level playset has dual racing tracks, a loop stunt, and pretend play opportunities on the first level of the ‘garage.’
The fire truck, police car, and rescue helicopter combine to create a 20"-long T.Rex ready to save the day! The police car makes sounds and has a driver, too.
They can keep a little magic close to their hearts while at school with this sweet gift perfect for preschoolers. It comes with eight ingredients, a booklet with five potions, and four different necklace styles.
hand2mindNumberblocks Super Secret Step Squad Headquarters
Fans of these mathematical superheroes will love this playset from the popular series. There’s a lookout, a ride-on elevator, and it comes with a Numberblock Three figurine. Get the rest of the Numberblock crew here.
The must-have for Bluey fans, this four-level playset has 45 sounds and phrases from the popular kids’ TV series, nine different play areas, and a real-working lift.
These cuties operate on USB charge, come in several color combos, and allow kids to communicate up to three miles apart. There’s even an option to listen to FM radio.
The perfect way to introduce a preschooler to all the wonderful ways the body works, this fun gift for ages four and up had a 3-D model, activity books, a magic “X-ray” machine, and much more.
With 36 wooden pieces and 60 pattern cards, preschoolers will have plenty of ways to practice their patterns. The bright colors and fun animals add to the fun.
A hot toy for holiday 2023, these magic mixie dolls are offered as a deer, a unicorn, or a mermaid, and all come in a sweet jeweled bottle. Just say the magic words and watch the mysterious potion reveal the treasure inside.
You’ll love reading these food-based stories about self-acceptance to your preschool kid. Choose between The Smart Cookie, The Sour Grape, The Couch Potato, and more!
Covered in the sweetest print, this activity book is perfect for on-the-go creativity. It comes with a set of ButterStix®, is erasable and washable, and is easy for little hands to handle.
Sparky is a special figment agent, and he delivers the FBI (Fantastic Bureau of Imagination)’s mail. One day, disaster strikes when the Cave of Untold Stories is too full, and Sparky must recruit more special agents. With lovely illustrations and fun prompts, this book is charmingly interactive.
Every special, musical, comedy, and classic kids’ Christmas movie your family will want to watch together this holiday season. And trust us, they all deliver tidings of comfort, joy, and laughter
The holiday season is here. That means the tinsel’s been unleashed, every meal includes sugar cookies, and all the screens in the house are tuned to family Christmas movies. From seasonal specials and animated comedies featuring your little ones’ favorite cartoon characters to jazzy musicals and instant yuletide classics that you and yours will treasure for years to come, the following curated list is a festive smorgasbord of kids’ Christmas movies. So grab that batch of cookies from the oven and dig in!
Family Christmas Movies on Netflix
Family Switch
Netflix
Queen of the body switch, Jennifer Garner of 13 Going On 30 fame stars in this identity switcheroo with Ed Helms from The Office. They star as parents of two who feel their once-tight-knit bond starting to fray. Come the holidays, however, the two are determined to make meaningful memories with their kids. It’s a wish that magically scrambles the families’ identities and leads to a slew of holiday hilarity.
If you and your littles loved the original Bad Guys film as much as we did, then you’re in for a treat. The menagerie of very bad animals is back for another heist, this one tangled up in tinsel and twinkling lights. But before they can carry out the perfect crime they’ve just masterminded, they have to save Christmas.
Baking their way through the yummiest season of the year, Strawberry Shortcake and her Berry Besties are using flour power to have the most perfect Winterswirl Eve yet. The only problem is Peculiar Purple Pieman has snagged all the cinnamon. Gather the little ones for this tasty adventure that decks the halls in pink frosting and rewrites the holiday songbook with the cutest tunes.
Anna Kendrick, Justin Timberlake, and Zooey Deschanel hit all the right notes in this addition to the happiest little franchise ever. Released in 2017, Trolls Holiday sees its brightly coiffed creatures celebrate Glitterpalooza, the day every troll indulges in song, dance, and glitter bombs. Should you want to keep the glitter flying with the 2021 installment, Trolls Holiday Harmony, it’s over on Hulu.
Fans of Paddington will find similar comfort in this wintry adventure that gives Father Christmas an origin story full of elves, reindeer, and enchantment. When a little boy named Nikolas heads out to find his father, he, with his talking mouse, Miika, and his flying reindeer, Blitzen, discovers the magic of the Far North’s village called Elfhelm.
If you prefer an animated version of Dickens’s classic Christmas story, Netflix offers Scrooge: A Christmas Carol. With a supernatural bent, this musical adaptation promises something for the whole family.
A young elf receives an alien she believes is simply a toy but is, in reality, much more. While this movie has a brief 42-minute runtime, it will entertain the young and old alike.
Released in 2020, this charming live-action musical about a toymaker is part Steampunk and part Dickens. Featuring a predominantly Black cast, including Academy-Award-winning Forest Whitaker, the once-betrayed and disgruntled toymaker finds new hope with his granddaughter.
The first original Netflix animated film follows the story of a plucky mailman and a toy maker in a bleak, remote village. They form an unlikely friendship when they decide to spread joy by delivering presents to kids.
StoryBots fans will love following along as Bo heads to the North Pole to get gift advice from Santa only to discover that the Jolly Old Elf has gone missing.
After two siblings accidentally crash Santa’s sleigh, they head on an all-night journey to get things back on track. Starring Kurt Russell, this crowd-pleasing film got a sequel in 2020 with Goldie Hawn as Mrs. Claus, and it’s just as fun as the original.
Celebrate the holiday season in Pitchfork Pines with this special starring the Super Monsters. Christmas Eve finds the Super Monsters lending Santa a magical helping hand to find his missing reindeer.
Dreaming of a white Christmas? You can’t get much more classic than a Christmas movie featuring Bing Crosby, Danny Kaye, and Rosemary Clooney, with tunes from Irving Berlin. It may not have cartoon adventure, but it does have musical numbers and an emphasis on love and family.
Lil Rel Howery dons the Santa suit for this festive Disney+ original. It costars Chris Bridges, who Mom will know better as Ludacris (the lyricist behind her favorite 2000 hip-hop hits), as a social worker who learns the true meaning of Christmas after a series of misadventures with his daughter.
Retooling heist films like Ocean’s Eleven and The Italian Job for the younger set, this family-friendly romp sees nine youngsters learn they’re on Santa’s Naughty List. Not about to accept a coal-only Christmas, the crew hatch a plan to hit the North Pole and take back the gifts they think they deserve.
Reimaging the original tale of sugar plum fairies and the little girl who dreams them up, the House of Mouse offers a dazzling and poetic fantasy film emphasizing the importance of love and courage. The magic swirls around Clara as she visits four realms while searching for the key to a mysterious box.
While technically not a movie, this mini-series and the latest installment in this modern Christmas franchise finds Santa hanging up his red hat, shaving off his pearly white beard, and retiring. His retirement is short-lived, though, when he realizes he may have hired the wrong replacement and endangered not only his elves but the whole holiday.
Kevin Bacon appears in this hilarious and festive holiday special from Marvel Studios: the Guardians take a trip to Earth to find a Christmas gift for Quill. Parents should keep in mind that the original film was rated PG-13, and while the holiday special has not yet been rated, it may be best suited for older kids.
The three sweet holiday tales in this anthology star Mickey and his pals in reimaginings of classic stories. Make this viewing a double feature with the sequel Mickey’s Twice Upon a Christmas, also available on Disney +.
What’s more playfully fun than a bunch of talking puppies trying to save Christmas? The adorable Santa Buddies are lending their paws to save the big day at the North Pole.
Are your little elves torn about whether their favorite holiday is Christmas or Halloween? Then give ‘em a dose of both. This holiday classic is a little offbeat, a little spooky, and full of a whole lot of crazy stop-motion visuals. It’s perfect for kids who crave a different kind of Christmas movie—and those old enough to enjoy the eerie effects.
Older kids will get a laugh watching Tim Allen (a divorced, uninvolved, turkey-burning dad) take a turn as Santa. The scenes at Santa’s workshop and the North Pole are amazing, but practice some Christmas caution: Allen gets the Santa gig because the original takes a fatal topple off a roof, there’s a lot of talk about divorce, and even a slightly scary scene with police.
There are a lot of versions of this story out there, but how many of them feature Michael Caine as Scrooge and the big-hearted Kermit as Bob Cratchit? Throw in all the fun musical numbers and Gonzo as the Charles Dickens narrator, and you’ve got a movie night to remember. Fair warning: his job is to scare Scrooge, so the Ghost of Christmas Future is pretty scary.
Ever wonder what it’s like being Santa’s kids? Anna Kendrick and Bill Hader star in this super fun story about how filling the big man’s shoes might be a little too much pressure. Is the Christmas spirit truly hereditary? Find out!
Jim Carrey takes on this classic tale as Ebenezer Scrooge as only he can. Watch as he’s visited by three spirits, and learns the true meaning of Christmas in this live-action film.
Inspired by the classic fairytale, this movie is a great way to celebrate the holidays as Mrs. Potts tells the story of the Christmas that almost didn’t happen. Kids will enjoy seeing their favorite characters and the new songs in this tale of friendship and love.
Tiny viewers will love watching Pooh and his friends help Rabbit discover the true meaning of the season. It’s an animated story about friendship and staying true to who you are.
For wise kids (and those who have a soft spot for Snoopy), you can’t go wrong with the Peanuts gang. Charlie Brown has some deep thoughts about Christmas commercialization and the holiday blues, but the end is all kinds of merry: the true meaning of Christmas and snappy music to boot.
Special note: A Charlie Brown Christmas will be offered to non-subscribers on AppleTV+ from December 16 – December 17.
Otherwise, subscribers can stream it anytime.
Rated: Not Rated
Recommended Ages: 3+
The Velveteen Rabbit
Based on Margery Williams’ classic children’s book first published in 1922, this film adaptation stays true to the original story of a little boy who loves the plush bunny he got for Christmas so much it comes to life, but also injects a little modern-day flair. Blending live action with 2D animation, this family-friendly gem explores themes of friendship and unconditional love.
Frog and Toad are best friends, and though their amphibious DNA might make you believe they’re pretty similar—they’re nothing alike. Now, it’s Christmas Eve, and the adventurous Frog is stuck in town, while creature-of-comfort Toad worries his buddy will miss the holiday entirely.
A holiday special that’s part of a stellar series, The Snoopy Show’s “Happiness Is Holiday Traditions” tags along with Snoopy and Woodstock as they visit the beagle’s brother, Spike, out in the desert. Not to let a few prickly cacti ruin their Christmas spirit, they conquer misadventures for the best holiday ever.
Based on the best-selling picture books written by Mac Barnett and illustrated by Jon Klassen, Shape Island molds its narratives around three shape friends: Square, Circle, and Triangle. In “The Winter Blues,” the series’ holiday special, Square is sad, so the others try to cheer him up with a new Yeti-centric holiday.
The colorful crew of Sagoville are celebrating closing one chapter and beginning another in “New Year’s Eve Steve.” The special unfurls as Harvey, the floppy-eared dog, gets help from a firefly to stay awake to see the clock strike midnight. One scavenger hunt and a ton of laughs later, the brood just might get their wish.
The book on which this snowy special is based was written and illustrated by Charlie Mackesy, and it’s a beautiful work of art that would make the perfect gift for loved ones of all ages. The moving short film, another masterpiece, brings the titular four to life through traditional hand-drawn animation, following along as the friends ponder love, kindness, and hope on their journey home.
Enjoy this musical with the older kids, as Will Ferrell, Ryan Reynolds, and Octavia Spencer hold nothing back as players in a rejiggered take on Charles Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol. Reynolds stars as Clint Briggs, a miser whose ghostly visits teach him the true meaning of Christmas. Meanwhile, Ferrell embodies the Ghost of Christmas Present, and Spencer plays the gift he wants to unwrap.
This year, the self-proclaimed Queen of Christmas is spreading cheer on the stages of the country’s biggest cities during her holiday tour, but if hard pants and big crowds aren’t your family’s style, just queue up this immersive sequel featuring Mariah Carey, her beloved songs, and a few fancy friends. Should you want a quick link to the 2020 original, here you go!
Apple TV+ has so. much. Peanuts. content, so go nuts! With For Auld Lang Syne, Lucy takes center stage, missing her grandmother and throwing a NYE party to cheer herself up. The first new holiday special in the Peanuts canon in nearly 20 years, this brilliantly animated short film is already an instant classic.
This stop-motion classic family Christmas movie about Rudolph and his unusual nose is a must-watch for every generation in your house. Parents can join their children on a nostalgic journey to the unforgettable Island of Misfit Toys.
Warning: Watching A Christmas Story is likely to result in nonstop quoting of all those hilarious one-liners (Go ahead and say it with us: “You’ll shoot your eye out!”). Double warning for the younger tots: “Fudge” is substituted for the F word, one poor kid gets his tongue frozen to a flagpole, and let’s not forget that fishnet stocking leg lamp.
Eddie Murphy and Tracee Ellis Ross team up for a holiday adventure about a family man who makes a pact with an elf to get a helping hand in winning his neighborhood’s holiday decorating contest. Of course, things don’t go as he expects, and the 12 Days of Christmas come to leaping to life.
Damien Wayne is home alone and determined to keep a bunch of supervillains from ruining his Christmas, so he turns himself into Little Batman and shows those filthy animals who’s boss. If it all sounds familiar, that’s because this animated tale is DC’s super-twist on Macaulay Culkin’s 1990 classic.
It certainly isn’t new, but no holiday is complete without watching Frank Capra’s seminal holiday film, It’s a Wonderful Life. A heartwarming story that explores the human condition in all its forms, kids young and old always find much to love about George Bailey, a businessman who gets a glimpse at what life would look like without him.
A remake of The Bishop’s Wife from 1947, this musical drama starring Whitney Houston and Denzel Washington is another holiday must-watch. Featuring a beautiful holy soundtrack sung by the late pop diva, the film sees Denzel’s Dudley help a family in crisis around the holidays.
This classic kids’ Christmas movie finds Yogi and his affable sidekick Boo Boo joining in on the holiday fun, even though they should be hibernating. Kids will love meeting other Hanna-Barbera favorites like Huckleberry Hound, Snagglepuss, and Augie Doggie.
This 2018 Italian film tells the story of an ordinary school teacher who, at night, transforms into Befana, the magical witch who bestows gifts upon all the good children. Available in Italian with English subtitles or a dubbed English version.
Arnold Schwarzenegger is willing to go to any length to get his son the latest and greatest toy for Christmas in this 1990s film. While there are some funny moments, some are also violent, and the movie may be better for older kids.
The Cat in the Hat is back again, making a messy party for all of the guests. But when the party is over, The Cat in the Hat, Sally, Nick, and the Fish discover a poor lost baby reindeer they are determined to help find his way home.
Inspired by Mariah Carey’s instant holiday classic song “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” this sweet little cartoon features a young girl named Mariah who wants one thing for Christmas—a puppy! (Again, puppies + Christmas = love). Plus, it features voices by Mariah Carey, Breanna Yde, and Henry Winkler.
Fans of the affable monkey won’t want to miss this adventurous holiday story featuring George and the Man in the Yellow Hat. They both work hard to find the perfect gifts for each other.
The whole family will be a bunch of jolly, happy souls when they watch this classic family Christmas movie about the snowman who was brought to life with a magic hat and some love.
Narrated by Fred Astaire, this classic holiday movie tells the story of Santa’s humble beginnings. The kids will get a kick out of seeing the movie’s take on how certain Christmas traditions began (like the flying reindeer and why Santa comes through the chimney).
This 2018 retelling of the classic Dr. Seuss story about the green grump who wants to stop Christmas is packed full of fun and laughs. Pharrell Williams narrates, while Benedict Cumberbatch voices the cantankerous Grinch.
Based on the classic picture book by Raymond Briggs, The Snowman is worth a watch with your tiny tots. This wordless movie follows the adventures of a young boy whose snowman comes to life. It’s a simple but whimsical story that still offers a healthy dose of holiday magic.
Based on the beautiful best-selling book, this classic family Christmas movie follows a young boy on his journey to the North Pole, where he discovers just how real Santa’s holiday magic is.
The classic story of It’s a Wonderful Life gets a kid-friendly twist thanks to the Muppet gang. In this version, the Muppet Theater is in trouble, and a stressed-out Kermit wonders if the world would have been better off without him and his friends. Luckily, his guardian angel (David Arquette) shows him what matters most—with the help of fun musical numbers and a star-studded cast.
What’s the lovable youngest son of Santa to do when he discovers that one child hasn’t received her Christmas present? Go on a madcap mission, of course! You’ll love the family spirit of this movie as we meet Arthur and the whole Claus clan.
A member of the John Hughes movie family, Home Alone is a full-fledged faceoff between eight-year-old Kevin and a couple of witless burglars. If it’s been a while since you’ve seen this one, you may not remember just how violent the slapstick gets. Still, it’s worth a view for older kids who understand the Christmas consequences.
Don’t be a cotton-headed ninny muggins (pardon our language) and miss out on watching the story of our favorite innocent “elf,” Buddy. This is another family Christmas movie you’ll be quoting all season long. Though a few spots may run a bit boring for little ones, kids will still love seeing the holidays through Buddy’s enthusiastic eyes.
This 1994 remake of a 1940s classic has all the tried-and-true favorites of a family Christmas movie: a precocious kid, a lovable Santa, and a smiley ending. But keep in mind, Mom and Dad, that the little girl in the movie does question the existence of Santa Claus—so if this isn’t a hot topic in your house yet, you might want to skip this one!
We can’t settle the age-old debate of old Grinch vs. new Grinch—but we’ll admit that the classic ‘toon version holds a special place in our “two sizes too small” hearts. Add it to your holiday movie lineup to get your yuletide dose of Seuss and Whoville.
There’s a “Gift of the Magi” element at play in this 1977 Jim Henson wholesome classic Christmas tale that is as adorable as it is lively, with original songs by Paul Williams. Kermit the Frog’s turn as the narrator is both funny and adorable.
This Disney original Hanukkah movie, which happens to be based on a true story, follows a beloved basketball coach as he becomes the coach of a yeshiva in Philly.
A teenage Riley in Inside Out 2 means all sorts of new emotions
Get ready for some serious teenage angst. Disney and Pixar Studios have just dropped the trailer for Inside Out 2, and in this first look, it seems as though emotions Joy, Anger, Disgust, and Fear have things running smoothly at HQ (aka Riley’s mind) when all of a sudden—it’s demolition day. When the dust clears, we get a sneak peek at a few new emotions about to take up residence. Anxiety arrives first, and boy does she make an entrance. Voiced by Maya Hawke, she immediately starts apologizing for her very presence, as someone with anxiety is apt to do. Inside Out 2 is slated to hit theaters in 2024, and if the trailer is any indication, it’s going to be a hit.
When announcing the sequel in 2022, Poehler said that the new film will “take place inside Riley’s head, only this time she’s a teenager.” Anyone who either has been, known, has parented, or come into contact with a teenager understands this will be a tall—and important—order to get right.
Poehler announced she would return as Joy, while Meg LeFauve, who co-wrote the original with Pete Docter and Josh Cooley, will write the script. Mark Nielsen is on board to produce the film.
Directed by Pete Doctor and co-directed by Ronnie Del Carmen, Inside Out follows the young girl Riley (Kaitlyn Dias), who leaves the comfort of her Midwest life and moves with her family to San Francisco. Each of her emotions is voiced by different actors: Fear (Bill Hader), Anger (Lewis Black), Disgust (Mindy Kaling), and Sadness (Phyllis Smith), and we watch as she tries to navigate all that comes with moving—school, home life, and meeting new friends. Docter conceived Inside Out in late 2009 after noticing how his daughter was growing and changing as she grew up as a middle schooler. The film was released in 2015.
The original Inside Out premiered at the 68th Cannes Film Festival, grossing nearly $859M worldwide upon its release. The film also received a nomination for Best Original Screenplay. It ended with Joy finally recognizing that Riley needed to experience a life with more complex emotions, and we think she’ll be on a wild ride trying to fit into Riley’s life as a full-blown teen.
This list includes some of the best movies for kids of all time. How many have you seen with your family?
Looking for the best movies for kids? With the endless array of TV and movie options out there (including free full-length options on YouTube), it’s hard to pick a flick that the whole family will love. Well, bicker no more. From The Karate Kid to The Incredibles, we’ve made the decision easy with a definitive list of must-see childhood movies for children under 12. So grab some fun snacks and get that family movie night started!
1. It's a Wonderful Life (1946) There's a reason people still watch this holiday classic year after year: Parents to tweens will appreciate this timeless tale of a once-hopeless man realizing the value of his own life with the help of a guardian angel.
Not rated.
Recommended for ages 9 and up.
2. E.T. (1982) Still one of the best science fiction movies ever, E.T. is all about friendship and childhood. From Reese’s Pieces to the classic phrase “E.T. phone home,” every moment of this movie will live with your extraterrestrial forever.
Rated PG
Recommended for ages 7 & up.
3. Spirited Away (2002) This animated film is a magical adventure and is considered to be one of Hayao Miyazaki's masterpieces. It stars a strong female protagonist but parents of younger kids beware: there are scary creatures, the parents turn into pigs, and in one scene a river dragon lingers on the verge of death.
Rated PG
Recommended for ages 9 & up.
4. Coco (2017) Based on the Mexican holiday, Dia de Los Muertos or Day of the Dead, Coco tells the tale of 12-year-old Miguel who finds himself in the Land of the Dead and with the help of his musician great-great-grandfather dives deep into his family history (and their generations-old ban on music!). There are strong family vibes in this blockbuster, and your kids will love the whimsically colorful, melodic story!
A note for parents—this movie deals with the concept of mortality and could be slightly upsetting for young kids.
Rated PG
Recommended for ages 7 & up.
5. Frozen (2013) and Frozen 2 (2019) This Disney classic (and its sequel) is definitely one of the best movies for kids. The films about sisterhood, family, and love will surprisingly warm your hearts, fill your home with song, and should come with a disclaimer: For months afterward, your kids won’t sing anything but Let It Go, Into the Unknown, and Do You Want to Build a Snowman.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 5 & up.
6. Soul This family movie from Pixar and Disney follows jazz musician and teacher Joe as he travels from life to the Great Before (instead of the Great Beyond). He's not ready for his life to be over, so he's determined to make it home. The first-rate cast including Jaime Foxx and Tina Fey, the amazing animation, and the wonderful music are just a few of the reasons to love this movie for kids.
Rated PG
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
7. Yes Day Inspired by the beloved children's book by the same name, Allison and Carlos decide to give their three kids a "Yes Day," where there's no saying no to anything the kids ask for or to do (within reason). Chaos ensues, and it becomes clear that all yes all the time isn't always the best idea.
Rated PG
Recommended for ages 7 & up.
8. The Sword in the Stone (1963) From rags to riches, it’s the story of King Arthur in true to Disney style. Your lil’ knight will be giggling, dancing and bopping to the wizarding whimsy of this animated musical.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 5 & up.
9. Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989) A shrink ray accidentally goes off and sets a group of kids on a journey back home (even though they never leave their backyard) while their parents search high and low for them.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
10. Cool Runnings (1993) Everything seems stacked against these athletes who are completely unprepared for the cold, let alone bobsledding. Loosely based on a true story of the Jamaica national bobsled team, Cool Runnings is a real inspirational film for young dreamers.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
Walt Disney Studios
11. Star Wars Series (1977-) Now is as good a time as any to introduce this epic space opera. Your space lover will be on the edge of his or her seat during this story of lightsabers, telepathic powers, space-flight adventures, and the biggest plot twist in cinematic history. Our inner geek is giving this PSA: Please remember to start your Jedi with A New Hope and not The Phantom Menace.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
12. A League of Their Own (1992) If your kids ever ask you why girls don't play Major League Baseball, you can tell them, "They did"—and then show them this film, which tells the real-life story of the 1940s All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. Tom Hanks shines as the grumpy coach.
Rated PG
Recommended for ages 8 & older
13. Willow (1988) For today's Harry Potter generation, a viewing of Willow will surely be of interest. The adventure is easy to follow and full of school-age humor, and two forest fairies provide comedy with their slapstick, strange voices, and snappy one-liners. Lucas' fantasy has interesting-looking characters and villages, gothic castles and, most of all, magic. Willow is an excellent choice to give young kids a taste of fantasy.
Rated PG
Recommended for ages 8 & older
14. Tangled (2010) Get lost in Disney’s retelling of Rapunzel, which is a lot more exciting than the original story. Hint: She gets to leave the tower and goes on a thrilling journey of magic, song, and self-discovery.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 5 & up.
15. Finding Nemo (2003) Laugh until your tummy hurts as this timid clownfish dad searches the great ocean for his son. Every underwater creature has a catchphrase that’ll become your guppy’s new mantra. Just keep swimming … just keep swimming!
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 5 & up.
16. Princess Bride (1987) Part comedy, part romance, part adventure, part fantasy and 100% perfect—Princess Bride is the ultimate family movie for storytime lovers, big, small, boy, or girl. And yes, there is some kissing.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
17. The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977) A perfect movie for the littlest film-goers, this endearing film follows A.A. Milne's classic bear as he bumbles about Hundred Acre Wood learning lessons on friendship. There's no offensive or scary content in the film, which makes it great for younger kids.
Rated G
Recommended for ages 3 & up.
18. Shrek (2001) One unforeseeable plot twist on the classic fairytale? Coming right up! An ogre sets out to rescue a princess with a talking donkey—plus all the characters from your cupcake’s bedtime stories.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
19. The Muppet Movie (1979) Way before Jason Segel starred in the 2011 Muppet movie, there was The Muppet Movie, which goes way, way back to before Kermit the Frog was in show business. Fans of those classic fuzzy puppets will love watching this origin story.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 5 & up.
20. The Lion King (1994) Grab a tissue for that one scene (you know which one we’re talking about), but after that, the rest of the movie is all song, dance, and excitement for your lil’ monkey.
21. The Sandlot (1993) Your short stuff will definitely relate to Scotty as he makes new friends on a ragtag baseball team and goes on grand adventures involving tree houses, rival groups, a legendary ball-eating dog, and all the things that childhood memories are made of.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
22. The Little Mermaid (1989) Ignore the original Hans Christian Andersen (that ending is unfortunately not very happily ever after), and opt for Disney’s The Little Mermaid for a family movie night with the kids. It’s got unforgettable songs, enchanting characters, and, best of all, a happy ending.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 5 & up.
23. Home Alone (1990) This perfect Christmas moviewill give your tots a movie dose of bravery, when it comes to being by themselves, as they watch a smart-aleck eight-year-old defend his home from a pair of bumbling burglars. Note: There is some sibling squabbling that isn't all that nice.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 7 & up.
24. Miracle on 34th Street (1947) No movie portrays the spirit of Christmas better than Miracle on 34th Street. Save this one for the holidays because it’ll definitely make your little helper feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
25. Spider-Man (2002) If you're looking for a good starter superhero movie, this 2002 origin story follows Peter Parker (Toby Maguire) as he gets bitten by a radioactive spider and becomes the witty hero we all know and love. Some explosions and tense Green Goblin moments may frighten sensitive viewers, but most tweens will love every bit of it.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 11 & up.
26. Toy Story 1, 2, 3, 4 (1995 - 2019) Every kid will love the iconic warm-hearted tale of the secret life of toys. From the very first film to the fourth, which hit theaters in 2019, follow the saga of Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and their fellow toys as they navigate the trials and tribulations of being Andy's toys. Each film is special in its own right.
27. Whale Rider (2003) Before Moana set out on the seas on a quest to save her village, a courageous girl named Pai did it first. The film is set in the Maori community of New Zealand, where modern culture threatens to quell ancient traditions. Twelve-year-old Pai sets out to prove that even though she is not the male heir her father wanted, she has the bravery, wisdom, and skill to lead. There are some adult themes (including a mother and child who die during childbirth, as well as some references to marijuana), but tweens and parents will appreciate the inspiring message.
Rated PG
Recommended for ages 11 & up.
28. The Sound of Music (1965) How else is your musical tot going to learn the lyrics to Do-Re-Mi? The Sound of Music is completely captivating with equal parts song, romance, and family bonding.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
29. Wadjda (2013)
The first movie to be directed by a Saudi Arabian woman, this story is of a spunky, independent 11-year-old girl who wants to ride a bike, wears Converse sneakers, and loves to compete against her (male) best friend. Beautifully done, the film explores topics such as religious traditions and laws, but it's also an incredible study of female empowerment. Follow along, and cheer for Wadjda as she fiercely makes a place for herself in the world.
Rated PG
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
30. Despicable Me, 2 & 3 (2010, 2013, 2017) Kids and adults alike will love this bad-guy-turns-good-guy fairy tale about a curmudgeonly villain who learns to love an orphaned trio of little girls. The sequels are just as much fun as the original.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
31. Free To Be You And Me (1974) In a compilation of shorts that were edgy at the time of this film's release, Free To Be You And Me explores things like gender roles, working mothers, and racial stereotyping with the help of celebrities including Mel Brooks, Alan Alda, Marlo Thomas, and a young Michael Jackson.
Not rated.
Recommended for ages 5 & up.
32. Harry Potter & The Sorcerer's Stone (2001) Your magical creatures won’t be able to get enough of the Harry Potter adventures. Everything from the food to the spells is a unique discovery. Start off with The Sorcerer's Stone, which introduces the wizarding world. The film series is completed, but the rest of the films skew for an older audience.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
33. Bedknobs & Broomsticks (1971) Starring the legendary Angela Landsbury and Mary Poppins alum David Tomlinson, this classic Disney film focuses on three siblings who are evacuated from London during World War II and end up in the care of an apprentice witch. Chaos ensues, and there's a fun animated section where they all end up on the island of Naboombu. While the slow parts may bore young children, and the presence of Nazi invaders might bring up questions, all and all, this is a fun classic film for families.
Rated: G
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
34. Mary Poppins Returns (2018) Julie Andrews fans can rest assured that this remake by Rob Marshall is an ode to the near-perfect original. Emily Blunt charms, Lin-Manuel Mirada shines, and the sequel plot means that viewers will see how Jane and Michael are faring some 20 years after Mary Poppins first came into their lives. Be on the lookout for a very special cameo from the one and only Dick Van Dyke!
35. How to Train Your Dragon(2010) Follow the adventures of the reluctant dragon-slayer Hiccup, who, after capturing the rarest dragon of all—the Night Fury—befriends it instead of killing it. Raucous adventures follow as Hiccup shows his fellow Vikings that not all dragons are dangerous. Note: Sensitive kids may be troubled by the initial scenes of violent dragons attacking the village.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 7 & up.
36. The Karate Kid (2010) This remake of the 1984 classic is geared toward a slightly younger audience with the help of the talented Jaden Smith, who stars as the new kid on the block who struggles to learn karate to fend off bullies and win the girl.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 9 & up.
37. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) Tim Burton’s delightful holiday fantasy film redefines Christmas for all our lil’ lovers of spook. Get carried away into a new world that celebrates two holidays in one—candy and presents? Every tot’s dream.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 7 & up.
38. Moana (2016) Girl power is at its best in this modern Disney classic that puts a strong-hearted young girl on a mission to return the "heart of the ocean" to its rightful owner. Besides the memorable songs and moving story, this film stands apart from most Disney flicks in that there are no princes (or romances of any kind) to be found during the whole 113 minutes.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
39. Beauty and the Beast (2017) The "tale as old as time" gets a modern retelling that stays true to its trademark Disney sweetness, with Emma Watson starring as a Belle every little girl will want to be. Note: Because it's live-action, some of the scenes (like the ones with the wolves chasing Belle) can be a little scary.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
40.Walking with Dinosaurs (1999) Excellent BBC six-part series that takes viewers on a journey from the beginning of dinosaurs to their demise. Educational but fun, this is perfect for older dino lovers.
Rated: NR
Recommended for ages 9 & up.
41. Bend it Like Beckham Featuring a diverse cast, this story of a British girl of Indian descent who hides her passion for the game of soccer from her parents is ultimately a wonderful show in strength and determination to go after your dreams.
42. An American Tail (1986) Long before Nemo and his dad were separated by oceans, a lanky immigrant mouse named Fievel journeyed to find his family "somewhere out there." One of the most classic family movies of the '80s, it's just as sweet today as you might remember.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 5 & up.
43. Spellbound (2003) Kids will be spelling out E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G after watching this fun documentary that follows a group of elementary school students across America as they prepare for the Scripps National Spelling Bee. The uplifting film shows the value of hard work and studying (your kids' teachers will approve!).
Rated G
Recommended for ages 8 and up.
44. Freaky Friday (1976) Like mother, like daughter—the hilarity that ensues when this mom and daughter duo switch bodies also gets across the important lesson of family bonding.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
45. The Secret of Nimh (1982) This movie has some scary parts, but kids ages eight and up will love the tale of extraordinary courage. The story centers around a group of super-intelligent rats who escape an animal laboratory and a family of field mice who enlist their help.
Warning: Sensitive children may find some scenes disturbing (including a sword fight that ends in the death of one rat).
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
46. Space Jam (1996) Animation, live action, comedy, and sports—it’s time to introduce your sports fan to the legend that is Michael Jordan and his greatest achievement… Space Jam.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 7 & up.
47. Free Willy (1993) Animal lovers will enjoy seeing this feel-good film about a boy becoming best friends with an orca. Your swimmers will be so engaged, that they might even shed a tear or two for Willy.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
48. Fern Gully (1992) If you were a '90s kid, then you'll know (and probably love) this classic eco-toon. Featuring the voices of some of the most famous actors of the time (Samantha Mathis, Christian Slater, Robin Williams, Tim Curry), join fairy-queen-in-training Cyrsta as she resues surfer-dude Zak from falling trees, and himself. Featuring a strong environmental message, it's a wonderful way to help show kids the value of a strong ecosystem. And, the music rocks, too.
Note: There are a few scary parts, in particular when Hexxus is released from the tree.
49. Spy Kids Adventure-loving kids will love this rollicking action movie about Carmen and Juni, the children of two infamous spies (who have gone undercover as boring parents). When their parents are kidnapped, the resourceful kids must summon their courage and jump into action.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 7 & up.
50. Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971) Golden ticket. Chocolate factory. Everything candy. Your sugarplum will remember the zany world of Willy Wonka for the rest of their life, though sensitive kids may be frightened by some scary moments.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
51. Charlotte’s Web (1973) This animated musical about Wilbur, the runt of the litter, and Charlotte, a friendly spider, is as touching as the novel by E.B. White. Prepare a package of tissues for the ending: It’s both sad and happy.
Note: We also love the 2006 remake, which features an adorable Dakota Fanning as Fern.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 5 & up.
52. Lassie (1994) Loyal, brave, and affectionate… your youngest will want a Collie after seeing all the extraordinary feats Lassie can do, from saving his owner from a mountain lion to snuggling with him all night.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
53. Babe (1995) Perseverance, friendship, and making your dreams come true—who knew a pig could teach us all that? Psst … at the start of the film, there is a bit of frightful honesty about animals being used for food, so keep an eye on your tiniest animal lovers.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
54. Enchanted (2007) Fairytale characters are thrown into the modern world in this live-action musical that shows what happens when a young maiden from the fictional "Andalasia" falls in love with a jaded New York City lawyer. Julie Andrews narrates this infectiously-sweet story. Note: There is a scary part at the end featuring a fire-breathing dragon that may rattle sensitive tots.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
55. The NeverEnding Story (1984) For enthusiastic readers with a wild imagination, The Neverending Story will take them for an exciting ride as a young boy tries to save the world of Fantasia.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
56. A Boy Named Charlie Brown (1969) This was the first of the Peanuts movies, and it introduces Charlie Brown as the sweet and sensitive little boy who can't seem to get anything right. The film follows him as he works to compete in a national spelling bee with the help of his faithful buds, Linus and Snoopy.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 4 & up.
57. ELF Will Farrell is at his best in this classic holiday film about a boy raised as one of Santa's elves but sets out at age 30 to find his real father in New York City.
58. Up (2008) An upbeat boy and a grumpy old man make an unlikely team… inside a floating house. They go on a journey that has a little bit of danger, a lot of humor, and a grander story of love.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
59. Newsies (1992) This Disney musical inspired by the real-life Newsboys Strike of 1899 follows a group of street-savvy kids who form a union and go on strike against the money-hungry newspaper typhoons of their time. The movie features catchy music and energetic dance numbers—and inspired the 2012-2014 Tony Award-winning Broadway show.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 9 & up.
60. Hook (1991) For all the inspiration that Peter Pan gives a rambunctious child, Hook shows how grown-ups can still have fun. Your Lost Boy (or Girl) will be hugging you tight throughout this movie.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
61. BIG (1988) For every kid who talks about growing up all the time, have them watch BIG because jumping from 12 years old to 30 years old is only a good idea in theory… and on film.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 10 & up.
62. Labyrinth (1986) Set in a bizarre world that’ll delight the most imaginative kiddo, Labyrinth will captivate your imagination with Muppets, riddles, and a lighthearted sense of danger.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
63. Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse (2018) This animated Spidey film follows a teen who becomes a new Spider-Man and meets a slew of other Spider-people from parallel universes. It's a little less intense than the live-action Spider-Man iterations, making it a better choice for younger viewers. Still, there is a lot of violence, including weapons and two major characters are killed—so be wary if you don't want your kids to be exposed.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
64. Trolls (2016) With an awesome pop-rock soundtrack that you'll want to download, like, asap, this light-hearted flick is about a duo of trolls (Justin Timberlake and Anna Kendrick) who partner up to rescue their friends from the troll-hungry bad guys.
65. My Neighbor Totoro (1988) Another masterpiece from Hayao Miyazaki, this family movie is appropriate for all ages. Two girl protagonists move to the countryside in 1950s Japan and are befriended by the magical creature, Totoro, who helps them when they have a problem related to their mother, who is dealing with a long-term illness.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 4 & up.
66. Alice in Wonderland (1951) Everyone loves this classic tale of a little girl who falls asleep and gets whisked into a nonsense world where "Everyone is mad." Alice grows bigger and smaller and encounters all sorts of wild characters—some of which are mildly inappropriate (like the hookah-smoking caterpillar and a head-chopping queen), but all in all this tale of silliness is fun and engaging.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 4 & up
67. LEGO Movie (2014) An ordinary LEGO minifig must save the universe from a tyrannical business lord. Forget Frozen, your LEGO maniac will be singing Everything is Awesome even before the movie ends.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
68. Mary Poppins (1964) A magical nanny uses her unique brand of lifestyle to bring a family back together. If your munchkins loved Sound of Music, this one is a must-add to their movie list.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
69. The Dark Crystal (1982) Fantasy lovers will jump right into the dark world of The Dark Crystal. Think of it as a more family-friendly version of Lord of the Rings—it’s a hero’s story about an elf-like creature on a quest to restore balance to his world.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 7 & up.
Disney Studios
70. The Princess and the Frog (2009) A twist on the classic tale: A beautiful girl kisses a frog (who is actually a prince) and instead of him getting turned back into a human, she gets turned into a frog! With a jazzy New Orleans vibe keeping things cool, this modern fairy tale is also the first Disney movie to feature an African-American heroine, Tiana. Also unlike Disney's long-ago damsels, Tiana is strong and hardworking and doesn't need a man to get by in the world (though she doesn't mind having one as a friend).
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 6 and up.
71. Ghostbusters (1984) So your tiny Ghostbusters may not be old enough to appreciate Bill Murray, but that doesn’t mean they can’t start now! It’ll be hard to find a “scary” movie that’ll have you crying from laughter like this one.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 10 & up.
72. The Parent Trap (1961/1998) A pair of twins set out to reunite their separated parents. Cue the chaos, humor, and aww moments! We’ll leave it up to you to decide to show the classic 1961 or 1998 one—both are that good.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
73. Aladdin (1992) Disney's retelling of the classic Middle Eastern folktale, Aladdin and the Wonderful Lamp, is filled with memorable music and a wise-cracking genie voiced perfectly by the late, great Robin Williams, who will entertain the grown-up viewers almost more than the kiddos.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
74. Cinderella (1950) Bippity bobbity boo! A story of a love so simple that even the smallest slipper wearer can watch this Disney classic in one sitting.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 5 & up.
75. The Wizard of Oz (1939) Ruby red slippers, flying monkeys, catchy songs, and the breathtaking transition from a world of black-and-white to color, The Wizard of Oz is a timeless story that’ll inspire your kiddo for ages.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
76. Big Hero 6 (2014) Disney's adaptation of the Marvel comic about a boy named Hiro and his robot creation, a "personal health companion" named Baymax, will delight little robot fans. But be forewarned: Much of the film deals with the idea of grief since the boy's older brother dies at the beginning of the film. Despite the sad beginnings, this family movie has lots of heart and a sweet ending.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 7 & up.
77. Raya and the Last Dragon (2021) In a realm known as Kumandra comes the Oscar-nominated mythical tale of when dragons and humans fought together to fight the Druun. Fast forward hundreds of years, and one girl is determined to find the last dragon to join the fight again. The imagery and strong female protagonists, not to mention a funny water dragon, make this a great movie for kids of all ages.
78. Akeela and the Bee (2006) A little girl from a tough neighborhood in LA learns she's got a knack for spelling—and that she doesn't need to change herself to fit in. Lawrence Fishburn stars as the spelling tutor who coaches her to the Scripps National Spelling Bee while teaching her to believe in herself. Note: There is some mild profanity in the film, so parents who have a no-tolerance policy toward this may want to wait a few more years.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
79. Matilda (1998) Tiny magic lovers will be entranced by this film, based on the classic Roald Dahl book about a brilliant little girl who uses her special powers to right the wrongs in her school and at home.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 9 and up.
80. Fly Away Home (1998) Anna Paquin stars in this inspiring story of a motherless little girl who learns to fly an ultralight aircraft so she can fly her adopted flock of geese south for the winter. Note: The death of the girl's mother at the beginning of the film may be upsetting for kids.
Rated PG.
Recommended for kids 6 & up.
81. Inside Out (2015) Kids may not understand the big concepts at the heart of the movie (that they're watching the personified emotions inside a little girl's brain), but they'll be entertained just the same. We think the real value is for Mom and Dad, who may actually learn a little something about what's going on in their kids' crazy little heads.
Rated PG.
Recommended for kids 7 & up.
82. Peter Pan (2003) This live-action remake has magic galore and will be a hit with big kids who have graduated from cartoons.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 9 & up.
83. Wall-E. (2008) While there is minimal dialogue throughout the whole movie (not a word is spoken in the first 22 minutes of the film), the lovable little robot who is stranded on a trash-filled future Earth will steal your family's heart and make you think twice about your recycling habits. Messages about environmentalism—as well as our reliance on technology—ring loud and clear, even without words.
84. The Incredibles (2004) Superhero family. Pixar. What more can we say? This spectacular animated film is simply made for a movie night with mom, dad, sis, brother, and babe.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 7 & up.
85. Ratatouille (2007) Kids will love this cute story about a French rat who wants to be a gourmet chef; grown-ups will appreciate the jokes intended only for them. Overall, this tale about a little rodent defying the odds is fun and inspiring. And, if you're lucky, it'll teach your tot a thing or two about food.
Rated G
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
86. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (1968) Sing-a-long adventures in a flying car! Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a comical adventure with a dash of danger. Fun fact: The script was co-written by Roald Dahl.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
87. Chronicles of Narnia (2005) If your reader is devouring the book series, the movies are pretty captivating too. Your Narnian won’t believe that Azlan is made up of special effects and not a real lion.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 10 & up.
88. Cinderella (2015) Disney's remake of its 1950 classic is just as magical with dazzling special effects and a live-action spin. Younger princesses may still prefer the original (this one has no songs), but parents longing to revisit the Cinderella story with their kids will find it to be a faithful and gorgeous retelling.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
89. Monsters Inc. (2001) Middle-of-the-night monsters won't be so scary anymore after kids watch this film and learn that they're the ones who have all the power.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 5 & up.
90. Vivo A fun romp with fantastic music from Lin-Manuel Mirada, this story is about a monkey who travels from Cuba to Miami in the name of love, and "one last song" will have everyone singing from the start.
Rated PG
Recommended for ages 5 & up
91. Encanto Another hit collab from Disney and Lin-Manuel Mirada, this movie tells the tale of the magical Madrigal family and their village hidden in the mountains of Columbia. When the magic is in danger, the only member of the family to not receive a magical gift, Mirabel, might be their last hope.
92. The Black Stallion (1979) This Francis Ford Coppola-directed film about a boy stranded on a desert island with a wild stallion who saves his life is a must-see, whether or not you're into horses. The film morphs from a wilderness survival tale to a root-for-the-underdog horse race. Note: The beginning shipwreck scene may be disturbing, even for adults, so feel free to skip to the island and go from there.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
93. Happy Feet (2006) This inspiring story about a penguin who can't find his song—but sure can dance—has a killer soundtrack and an uplifting message. Basically, you be you, penguin. There are also some not-so-subtle messages about environmental stewardship, as the penguins find themselves in a perilous race against a dwindling food source.
Note: Some scenes with a particularly vicious sea lion might scare younger viewers.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
94. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey (1993) Three loyal pets escape and journey through the West Coast to find their beloved owners in San Francisco. Your sidekick is going to be asking for a furry family addition after this classic family movie.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 6 & up.
95. Cars (2006) Every kid who loves going "vroom vroom" with his toy cars will love this fast-paced film about a smooth-talking race car who learns the meaning of true friendship and the joy of the open road when he gets stuck in the small town of Radiator Springs.
Rated G.
Recommended for ages 5 & up.
96. The Absent-Minded Professor (1961) A classic family-friendly film that features a befuddled professor who, at the expense of his own wedding, manages to create an amazing compound he calls flubber. You'll root for the Professor to outwit the greedy Alonzo Hawk, and the silly stunts (like basketball players that can jump to crazy heights) will make the whole family laugh.
97. The Mighty Ducks (1992) If your budding athlete loves the sports-movie formula of losers becoming winners, then she'll love this movie that follows a ragtag hockey team as they shape up and learn the value of teamwork and friendship.
Rated PG.
Recommended for ages 10 & up.
98. Zootopia (2016) After an otter goes missing, it's up to bunny cop Judy Hopps and her fox-with-a-criminal-record sidekick Nick Wilde to solve the crime. Along the way, the duo meets some of the unique citizens that make up Zootopia and learn to appreciate (love, actually) each other's differences.
Rated PG
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
99.The Incredibles 2 (2018) The nearly 20-year-long wait for the sequel to one of Pixar's most popular movies was worth the wait. Watch Mrs. Incredible (aka Elastagirl) go back to work and leave Bob (Mr. Incredible) at home with a moody tween, homework, and a baby with multiple powers. Look for the return of fan-favorite Edna, and fellow superhero Fro-Zone. Some violence might be scary for younger kids, but the all-around message of teamwork is a home run for families.
Rated PG
Recommended for ages 8 & up.
100. The Kid Who Would Be King(2019) This modern retelling of the legend of King Arthur has been described as a mixture of "Goonies" and "Lord of the Rings." The story follows a schoolboy who is chosen to save the world with the help of the mystical sword. There are some scary moments—including tense battle scenes and the destruction of a school—but older tweens will love it.
A cool pumpkin carving stencil will make all the difference
Your kids have picked out their favorite Halloween costumes, and you’ve decided whether you’ll go trick-or-treating or attend a Trunk or Treat. Now it’s time to carve out a place of honor for your pumpkin in the neighborhood Halloween parade with one of our cool pumpkin carving templates. Whether you want a Ninja Turtle, Peppa Pig, or classic witch carving stencil, you’ll find a little bit of everything (and all skill levels) in our collection of pumpkin carving stencils. Feeling extra creative? Try your hand at these other amazing Halloween crafts for kids, DIY Halloween decorations, and easy Halloween-inspired treats.
What’s the History Behind Pumpkin Carvings and Jack-O’-Lanterns?
The tradition of carving pumpkins has origins in the Irish myth of Stingy Jack. People began carving faces in turnips to keep Jack’s (and other evil spirits) soul away, and when immigrants came to the United States, they started using pumpkins. Halloween is rooted in the Gaelic celebration of Samhain, which starts on Oct. 31 and ends on Nov. 1 and celebrates bringing in the harvests and ushering in the dark winter months. People would go from house to house in search of food and drink. They would also often carve makeshift lanterns out of potatoes and other root veggies, and as the years passed, several of these traditions blended to become what we now celebrate as Halloween.
How to Use a Pumpkin Carving Template
So, you’re ready to pick your pumpkin carving stencil and get to work. But, do you know the tips and tricks for carving a pumpkin? We love this tutorial from HGTV that offers advice on how to get the best-looking pumpkin on the block. We also recommend using tracing paper with a dry-erase marker or pencil on your pumpkin and having the best tools at the ready. A serrated knife is a must, as is a big spoon for scooping out the seeds and a paring knife is good for carving. You can also invest in a pumpkin carving kit, which will include everything you need to get started.
The live-action remake of The Little Mermaid was a smash hit, and while we adore Melissa McCarthy's take on the legendary Sea Witch, there's just something about the original animated form. Download the template here.
It's a jack-o'-lantern but with an ocean twist! This adorable California Sea Lion pumpkin stencil is one you won't see on many porches. Download the pumpkin carving template here.
Who says ghosts have to be scary? This adorable pumpkin carving template from Muse Printables is perfect for families with toddlers experiencing their first Halloween. Download it here.
Got a Lionel Messi fan in the house? Show your love of the game with a soccer ball pumpkin! If there's another sport that your family holds close to their heart, don't worry! There are pumpkin carving stencils for everyone. Check them out on Pumpkin Pile.
This classic Halloween-themed pumpkin carving template will look perfect next to your witch, zombie, or monster! Download the free printable pumpkin stencil at Free Stencil Gallery.
If your kid is a Minecraft fan, then this pumpkin carving stencil of Steve will thrill their little building hearts. Download the free pumpkin printable from pumpkinpile.com.
Donatello
The new movie came out this summer, so why not add one of your favorite teen turtles to the front porch? Download it here.
Peace Sign
This peace symbol pumpkin pattern will bring good vibes on Halloween night. Download it from Pumpkin Pile.
Simple phrases are fun, and this one is perfect for a house that has plenty of Halloween decor. Download the pumpkin carving stencil from Pumpkin Pile.
Hey, all you cool cats and kittens! This tiger pumpkin carving design is a way to give a shout-out to the docu-series that rocked our world when the pandemic hit in 2020. Download the pumpkin carving template over at SpookMaster.
Say it with an emoji this Halloween. Not only is this adorable, but this pumpkin carving design is perfect for beginning carvers. Download the template over at DLTK.
Witch Pumpkin Stencil
What's Halloween without a proper witch pumpkin stencil? We love this one from HGTV. It's a basic pumpkin carving template that'll pop at night.
Albert Einstein
Pumpkin Glow
This is an advanced pumpkin carving template, but it's an amazing one! Pay tribute to one of mankind's most luminous minds with this fun design. Download the template from Pumpkin Glow.
Frankenstein
Mary Shelley's iconic monster does not disappoint. We love Better Homes & Gardens version of the classic Halloween character.
Candy looters beware!! The Jolly Roger looms near. This fun skull and crossbones design is especially fun for pirate-loving folks. Grab the download over at Pumpkin Pile.
For your Jurassic Park fans, this fairly simple pumpkin carving template of an Indominus Rex is perfect. Download for free at Pumpkin Pile.
Meow
It wouldn’t be All Hallows Eve without a black cat lurking about, and we think this stencil from Woo Jr. is just the right balance of spooky and sweet.
In honor of the Emmy-nominated Wednesday, why not carve Wednesday's unforgettable face on your pumpkin this year? Download the design by leopard toes via Devian Tart.
Goofy Jack-O'-Lantern Template
A classic jack-o'-lantern is always fun, and this one gives a little goof to the iconic pumpkin carving template. Download the design from Pumpkin Pile.
Who You Gonna Call?
Keep the ghosts at bay with this perfectly themed template from Pumpkin Carving Templates. (And have your kiddo dress up as Holtzmann for bonus points.)
I Am Groot!
If you’re a Marvel fan, then you’ve got to make a Baby Groot pumpkin this year, even if only for the cute factor. Get the template from Pumpkin Pile.
Peppa Pumpkin
Everybody loves Peppa Pig, and she’ll look fabulous on your front step this Halloween. Grab the pumpkin carving template from Pumpkin Pile.
Pokemon is as popular as ever, and who doesn't love Pikachu? Parents, you’ll love how easy this design is to carve. Download the template.
Cool Cauldron
Double, double toil, and trouble! Give trick or treaters traveling by broom their own cauldron for the big night with this pumpkin stencil. The hardest part will be making sure the bubbles in the mysterious brew turn out just right. Grab the design over at Celebrating Halloween.
Super Mario
The Mario Bros. have a smash movie hit on their hands, and we are totally loving it! Keep the feels going with this fun carving template. Download the stencil over at Mario Mayhem.
Room on the Broom
Go the more traditional route with Home Life Weekly‘s classic carving, featuring the spooky silhouettes of a witch and her bat friend. Let the little ones carve the large parts like the witch’s hat, and you can take the reins for the details of the bat.
Simple Spider
Spiders love to drop in for Halloween, and with this pumpkin carving template, it's easy! The big sections that need to be carved out make this one perfect for beginners. Click here to grab the pdf.
If your Star Wars fans aren't so sure about joining the dark side, there are plenty of other characters to choose from too. See them all at Star Wars.
Owl Orb
Whoooo wants to carve a pumpkin? A simple and sweet design featuring an owl resting on a branch will make little ones smile. Get the pattern from Pumpkin Carving Templates.
We love the clever way HGTV uses a pumpkin to make a statement. With this candy arrow, no trick-or-treaters will be left behind.
Guide the Way
Little Wayfinders will be guided by the heart of Te Fiti when it glows brightly on Halloween night. This simple but stunning design will be a hit with the porch parade! Get the stencil over at Free Stencil Gallery.
Light the Way
For a different take on glowing pumpkins, try this candelabra design from HGTV. You can either go spooky with an eerie glow or make it classy with bright shiny light.
Vampire Pac-Man
This design from Woo Jr. takes us back to our days of Pac-Man and pinball machines—with a Halloween twist! The large blocks of pumpkin to be cut out make this a pretty easy design for little ones to pull off, too.
Spell It Out
This one simply says it all. Download it from Pumpkin Pile now!
Pirate Pumpkin
Arrrr! A pirate pumpkin is perfect for the plunder that is Halloween night. Your little buccaneers will even have a fellow matey to welcome them home after a night of collecting serious booty. Download the design over at Pumpkin Pile.
A classic Halloween character, this wrapped up moaning monster will be a fun addition to your porch this Halloween. Download the printable from HGTV.
Make sure to capture all the fall fun—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.
We’ve rounded up the most popular kids’ Halloween costumes of 2023 (for kids of all ages!)
Halloween is right around the corner, and that means it’s time to start thinking about kids’ Halloween costumes! Movies, TV shows, video games, and some tried and true classic Halloween costumes always seem to inspire the year’s most popular costumes. So, of course, we’ve got Barbie, Mario, Stitch, and Thor, along with lots more favorites. We’ve also made sure to divide them up by age and popularity, but there aren’t any rules. After all, it’s Halloween. These are also the costumes that tend to fly off the shelves the fastest, so unless you plan to make your own costumes this year, you’ll want to snag one of them before it’s too late.
New Kids Halloween Costumes for 2023
'Super Mario Bros.' Mario Costume
HalloweenCostumes.com
With the hit movie making waves this past spring, the '90s kids' fave Super Mario Bros. is more popular than ever. Available in kids sizes 4-12 and includes a jumpsuit, hat, pair of gloves, and, of course, a mustache!
Hi, Barbie! You had to know the iconic Cowgirl look from the hit Barbie Movie would be here, but we're not at all mad about it. This set comes with a jumpsuit and bandana, but keep an eye out for the matching cowboy hat that's coming soon!
Officially licensed and covered with the perfect details, this Captain Marvel costume will make your little one feel like they can take on the world (because of course, they can). It comes in sizes S-XL and includes the jumpsuit, belt, and mask.
Aliens are sort of having a moment this year, but we're also into one-and-done easy kids' Halloween costumes. It inflates fast and stays that way, so all they have to do is step into it and go!
It's hard to argue with a beautiful costume that only requires a fork as the perfect accessory (though you could totally add this awesome wig or this beautiful 2023 Ariel wig to create the whole mermaid vibe). This costume includes the sparkly dress and is available in sizes XS-XL.
It's the Season of the Witch, and they simply never go out of style. This one from PBK is designed with a cool web pattern on the hat and dress that glows when the lights go out, and 3D spiders crawl up the cape (why doesn't this come in adult sizes, we ask?!). The set includes a dress, cape, and hat and is available in sizes 3T-8Y.
Kids will always love ninjas and some of them dream of using their skills for good. Keep them agile with this Ninja Warrior costume, and consider using their costume choice as a chance to explain what being a ninja entailed historically. Encouraging research and learning leads to kiddos who are dressing as a historical figure/character versus a culture. How a costume is worn matters, according to Yuko Kaifu, president of Japan House in Los Angeles. This costume comes in sizes XXS-L and includes a jumpsuit, mask, belt, and throwing star.
Among Us has been popular for a long time, so it's no surprise it made the list again in 2023. This costume self-inflates fast and allows for vision and free hands, too! Comes in 4 colors/characters.
If you have a little slugger on your hands or just a kid who's all about girl power, Dottie Green is an easy pick! It's also a super cute group costume idea. It comes with a dress, hat, belt, and socks in sizes XS-XL.
Their favorite L.O.L. Surprise characters are here just in time for Halloween! They can pick between Diva and Queen Bee. Diva (pictured) comes with a dress, underskirt, belt, headband with bow, wig, and surprise gift!
2023 is seriously the year for blockbuster movies our kiddos can't get enough of, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are back and better than ever. The Donatello costume comes with a jumpsuit, mask, elbow pads, knee pads, shell backpack, and a belt. It comes in sizes XS-L.
What kiddo doesn't want to save the day? Whether they choose Chase or one of the other Paw Patrol pups, they'll be cute and cozy, too! It comes with a jumpsuit (that includes mitts and shoe covers ) and a backpack. Available in sizes 4T-L.
This dino fave comes with battery-operated LED lights in the spikes on the head for a legendary costume. It's available in sizes 2T-6 and comes with a jumpsuit and headpiece (though you can be extra and add this fabulous matching prehistoric treat bag!)
Everyone loves Stitch, and this sweet costume is just as plush as the character! We also love that it's a one-piece jumpsuit that just requires a zip-up.
There are so many reasons to love Ms. Marvel, and her shape-shifting powers are no match for her foes. The costume includes a tunic with an attached scarf, pants with boot-tops, and an eye mask.
God of Thunder (or maybe your little lightning bolt)? We got you covered with this costume. It includes a full cape, an armor belt, a pair of gauntlets, and a jumpsuit.
Your Space Ranger's imagination will soar to "infinity and beyond" in this Buzz Lightyear costume. It features all the intergalactic essentials needed to defeat Emperor Zurg in no time, including light-up wings! Includes bodysuit, wings, gloves, and headwear.
We're pretty sure Minions will be one of the most popular costumes for kiddos for a long time, and with good reason. This little union suit is great for younger kiddos since it's another one-and-done.
If you've been humming 'The Family Madrigal' for months, then Encanto is probably a family favorite. The Mirabel costume includes a beautiful dress and signature glasses.
Too cool for just one name, she is known as Gwen Stacy, Ghost-Spider, and Spider-Gwen. Whichever name your kiddo prefers, this authentic Marvel Spider-Gwen costume will help them launch Halloween into the Spiderverse. This one comes with a hooded bodysuit, mask, and gloves.
T'Challa may be the Black Panther, but even powerful superhero brothers need their little sisters to help them out of sticky situations every now and then. It comes with a bodysuit, armbands, and gauntlets.
Another year, another popular Minecraft kid's Halloween costume! These blocky looks aren't going anywhere, and we really appreciate the square helmet to give the cubic look they love without a mask (that they might love a little less). It comes with an authentic 3D top, pants, and headpiece in kids sizes S-L.
Sisters! Perfect as a group costume or let them pick their favorite from Winifred, Mary, or Sarah Sanderson. Costume includes a sleeveless tutu dress with add-ons available to create the perfect look to put a spell on everyone they meet.
The lovely Ladybug from Miraculous is as heroic as she is awesome! This costume comes with a jumpsuit, gloves, eye mask, and iconic blue wig. Since the full-feature movie just dropped on Netflix, we're betting this kids' Halloween costume will be everywhere
Your little Maverick will be totally ready to take flight in this costume! Add a pair of aviator glasses to the flight suit and let them pick from the included interchangeable patches.
Most Popular Kids’ Halloween Costumes for Ages 10-13
'Fortnite' Drift Twofer
Spirit Halloween
Let them dance their way into Spooky Season with this Drift Twofer costume, including the signature kitsune mask. Add the included jacket and gloves and they're ready to go.
They'll be able to dance dance dance from house to house trick-or-treating in style with this ruffly party dress inspired by our favorite braided beauty, Wednesday Addams. This set comes with a dress, belt, socks, and braided wig and is available in sizes 4-13 years.
Robin totally rocked the Video Stop on Stranger Things and managed to defend Hawkins in her spare time. This kids' Halloween costume comes with a jacket + attached vest and a tie.
In true Addison style, this costume lights up for a true out-of-this-world style. The set has a printed jumpsuit, light-up skirt, and belt. We love the great wig, too (sold separately here!).
These fun stick figure kids' Halloween costumes have become super popular; probably because they look great at night. The costume comes with a jumpsuit, mask, gloves, and battery pack.
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