While we believe in limiting screen time for little ones, watching a good movie with a parent actively involved can be a beloved childhood memory for many children. If you’re in the mood for watching a great kid-friendly flick but need some ideas for what to watch, look no further!
Here are some films to choose from that are rated G and consistently ranked as family favorites:
1. Finding Nemo
Everyone’s favorite fish flick, Finding Nemo teaches kids and parents alike how “Fish are friends, not food”. Full of wonderful adventures as Nemo’s father Marlin crosses the entire ocean in search of his “rescued” clownfish son, Finding Nemo absolutely dazzles with beautiful visuals, fun characters, and clever dialogue and storylines. And thanks to the beloved Dory, your kids will always remember the golden life lesson that in difficult times they should “Just keep swimming!”
2. The Lion King
A true Disney classic with an unforgettable singalong soundtrack, The Lion King has won children and parents over for years. Favorite tunes from this animal movie set in Africa include Can You Feel the Love Tonight, Hakuna Matata, and Circle of Life. Simba the lion makes a great character and has some fantastic feathered and furred friends in this movie, and the kids will absolutely love singing the songs and seeing all the safari animals in this nice story.
3. Inside Out
Inside Out makes for a lovely heartwarming tale that addresses some of the very complex issues involved in experiencing emotions in life and how those emotions affect us, and how we can affect them. It provides an interesting take on feelings and gives some good opportunity to chat about emotions with your little one while you enjoy a fun storyline with unique characters.
4. Finding Dory
If your kids can’t get enough of the characters and fun of Finding Nemo, Finding Dory is one of the rare breed of truly enjoyable and well-done sequels. This fun film brings back some of your favorite characters like Nemo, Marlin and Dory in a new sequel storyline that feels fresh and not contrived, and introduces a number of really fun new characters as well. Fun for the whole family to watch!
5. Up
Up is a great movie about adventure and taking a chance and coming to care about one another even when you don’t think you will at first. There’s also a great dog that can “talk” and the fun idea about houses being able to float with balloons, as well as a timeless storyline about the power of making an old promise and dream come true. The kids will love it and the adults will enjoy the story and its sometimes very poignant moments as well.
6. Aladdin
With arguably one of the best Disney soundtracks that exists (and arguable only because there are so many great ones!) as well as Robin Williams’s impeccable Genie character, Aladdin is another one of those timeless Disney classic hits. A fun story, catchy memorable songs, good characters – including a magic carpet!, Aladdin is a must-watch for kids and adults alike if you’re looking for a fun flick to enjoy with your little one.
We’ll cover more great kid-friendly movie options in the future; in the meantime go grab some popcorn, blankets, and the kids and enjoy some great movie watching together!
