20 Movies Every Kid Should Watch for Fun, Learning, and Growth
Movies are more than just entertainment; they can also be powerful tools for teaching valuable lessons, sparking creativity, and fostering empathy in children. By encouraging your child to watch well-chosen films, you can open up conversations about life, values, and the world around them.
From animated adventures to classic tales and inspiring true stories, here are 20 movies that every parent should encourage their kids to watch. Each of these films provides not just fun but also essential learning experiences that can help shape your child’s development.
1. The Lion King (1994)
The Lion King is a timeless Disney classic that teaches valuable lessons about courage, responsibility, and the circle of life. The story of Simba's journey from a carefree cub to a responsible king highlights the importance of facing one’s fears and taking responsibility for one's actions.
The movie also introduces themes of loss, redemption, and the power of family, making it a powerful watch for kids and adults alike.
2. Finding Nemo (2003)
Finding Nemo is a heartwarming tale about family, perseverance, and the power of never giving up. It teaches children about the importance of trusting themselves and others, even in difficult situations.
Through Marlin’s journey to find his son Nemo, the movie also emphasizes themes of letting go and allowing loved ones to grow and learn on their own.
3. Matilda (1996)
Matilda is an inspiring story of a young girl who, despite facing neglect from her family, uses her intelligence and courage to change her life.
This film teaches children about the power of knowledge, standing up against injustice, and the importance of kindness and friendship.
It also encourages kids to embrace their uniqueness and to believe in their own abilities.
4. Toy Story Series (1995-2019)
The Toy Story series explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the inevitability of change. Through the adventures of Woody, Buzz, and the other toys, children learn about adapting to new situations and valuing relationships.
Each film in the series reinforces important messages about growth, letting go, and the true meaning of loyalty.
5. The Iron Giant (1999)
The Iron Giant is a touching story about friendship, sacrifice, and choosing who you want to be. The film teaches children that being different can be a strength and that true heroes are defined by their actions, not appearances.
Its themes of peace, understanding, and empathy make it a great movie to encourage discussions about deeper values.
6. Inside Out (2015)
Inside Out is an innovative Pixar film that explores the complexity of human emotions. It teaches kids about the importance of understanding and embracing all their feelings, including sadness.
By personifying emotions like Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust, the movie helps children grasp emotional intelligence and the importance of mental health.
7. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
E.T. is a beloved classic that highlights themes of empathy, friendship, and acceptance of the unknown. The bond between a young boy, Elliott, and an alien named E.T. teaches children about kindness and the power of understanding and love.
The movie also encourages children to be brave and to embrace the things that make them unique.
8. Up (2009)
Up is a touching story of adventure, loss, and friendship that resonates with both kids and adults. The film teaches valuable lessons about pursuing dreams, dealing with loss, and the importance of companionship.
It shows that life’s adventures are often about the journey rather than the destination and encourages empathy and understanding.
9. Charlotte’s Web (2006)
Charlotte’s Web is a heartwarming story about friendship, kindness, and the cycle of life. It teaches children the value of loyalty and selflessness through the relationship between Wilbur the pig and Charlotte the spider.
The movie also introduces themes of life, death, and the importance of nurturing bonds with others.
10. The Incredibles (2004)
The Incredibles is an action-packed adventure that also explores themes of family, identity, and teamwork. The film encourages children to embrace their unique talents while emphasizing the importance of working together and supporting each other.
It also shows that being a hero isn’t about superpowers but about courage, love, and resilience.
11. Spirited Away (2001)
Spirited Away is a magical Studio Ghibli film that introduces children to themes of bravery, independence, and the power of kindness. The story follows a young girl named Chihiro who must navigate a mystical world to save her parents.
It encourages children to face their fears, adapt to new environments, and remain true to themselves.
12. The Secret Garden (1993)
The Secret Garden is a beautifully told story about healing, friendship, and the magic of nature. It teaches children about the importance of compassion, empathy, and the transformative power of love and care.
The movie encourages kids to appreciate the beauty around them and the strength found in friendships and family.
13. Coco (2017)
Coco is a visually stunning film that explores themes of family, tradition, and remembering our loved ones. It teaches children about the importance of honoring one’s heritage and understanding where they come from.
The movie also conveys the value of forgiveness and following one's passion, even when faced with challenges.
14. The Little Prince (2015)
The Little Prince is a unique animated adaptation that explores themes of love, imagination, and seeing the world through a child's eyes. It encourages children to cherish creativity and the beauty of relationships over materialistic pursuits.
The film teaches kids the importance of keeping their inner child alive, no matter how old they get.
15. WALL-E (2008)
WALL-E is a thought-provoking Pixar film that touches on themes of environmental conservation, loneliness, and love. The movie teaches children about the importance of caring for the Earth and the dangers of overconsumption.
It also highlights the value of companionship and the idea that even small actions can lead to significant changes.
16. The Princess Bride (1987)
The Princess Bride is a charming blend of adventure, romance, and humor that appeals to both children and adults. It teaches children about courage, true love, and the importance of never giving up.
The film’s mix of wit, fantasy, and heartfelt moments makes it a great choice for family movie night.
17. Akeelah and the Bee (2006)
Akeelah and the Bee is an inspiring film that encourages hard work, perseverance, and the value of education. It tells the story of a young girl who overcomes obstacles to compete in the National Spelling Bee.
The movie teaches kids about believing in themselves, overcoming fear, and the importance of community support.
18. The Sound of Music (1965)
The Sound of Music is a classic musical that teaches children about family, courage, and standing up for what’s right. It explores themes of love, resilience, and finding joy even in difficult times.
With its memorable songs and uplifting story, it’s a wonderful film that resonates across generations.
19. Inside Out (2015)
Inside Out is a Pixar film that creatively explores the complexity of human emotions. It teaches kids the importance of recognizing and understanding all of their emotions, not just the happy ones.
The film encourages empathy and helps children develop emotional intelligence by personifying emotions like Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust.
20. Zootopia (2016)
Zootopia is a fun, animated film that explores themes of diversity, tolerance, and perseverance. It teaches children about the dangers of prejudice and the value of working hard to achieve their dreams.
The film encourages open-mindedness, understanding, and standing up against stereotypes and injustice.
