With the many children’s movies available for viewing on cable, HBO, Netflix, and other streaming services, it can be difficult to sift through and find the movies that are both appropriate for your kindergarten-aged child that also model positive behaviors. Your child is deeply impressionable at this age, as you know, and so it matters what they see in their entertainment. Here are a number of films that teach empathy, inspire leadership, and positively impact viewers of all ages.
Angelina Ballerina: Dreams Do Come True
Rated appropriate for children ages 4 and up by Common Sense Media, this 56-minute film follows Angelina Ballerina as she is presented with the opportunity to pursue a big dream, which would result in personal acclaim and accomplishment but also a departure from the familiar faces at her current studio. After watching, discuss how Angelina made her decisions and ask your child to consider their own thoughts on the situation. What would they do if they were in her shoes?
My Neighbor Totoro
Released in 1988, this 86-minute Hayao Miyazaki film is appropriate for children ages 4+. Set in 1958 Japan, the film follows the story of a family in transition. Two sisters move with their father to be near their mother, who is convalescing from a long illness; of all of the changes in their lives, the most wonderful is meeting their new friend, the magical creature Totoro. Overarching themes include family ties, responding to change, and the power of imagination. Keep in mind that Totoro is one of many magical creatures in the film — others include (potentially scary) wood spirits and creatures who growl. Fans of the movie love the strong female protagonists and their sense of adventure and independence.
Kiki’s Delivery Service
Another of Hayao Miyazaki’s films makes the list for its wonderful coming-of-age adventure. Kiki’s Delivery Service, which debuted in 1998, is rated G, runs for 105 minutes, and is rated best for children 5-years-old and up. The main character, Kiki, is a friendly witch who flies on her broomstick, goes on adventures, and helps her friends when they are in need. Set in an unspecified European-style city in the 1950’s, viewers old and young alike will love the views from Kiki’s flights. Parents love how Kiki models resourcefulness in the face of adversity; those with children sensitive to scary scenes or cartoon villains will appreciate that there is no “bad guy” in this movie.
It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
With fall just around the corner, consider bringing out this 25-minute classic, first released in 2000. Follow along as Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Linus, and the rest of the group trick-or-treat, bob for apples, and try to find the Great Pumpkin. Best suited for ages 4 and up, the movie can spark a family conversation around holiday traditions, the changing of seasons, and Halloween costumes. Be aware that, given the setting for the movie, there are a number of scenes with skeletons and other scary costumes.
Dr. Seuss: The Lorax
It’s never too early to learn about the importance of protecting nature, and this 1972 movie, based on the book of the same name, does just that. The 25-minute story follows as the Lorax, the spokesperson for the magical and imaginative creatures of Dr. Seuss’s world, as he valiantly attempts to protect his wards against the Once-ler, who is chopping down Truffula Trees and causing other creatures to disappear. Discuss what it means to be responsible for one’s actions and how your family can help the environment.
Hopefully, these reviews will help you decide if these particular movies are appropriate for you and your family. You know your child best, so if there is a particular concern that you have, please be sure to continue your research to find the best movies for your family to enjoy.
