6 Must-See Family Movies That Will Inspire Your Kids

The Oscars and Golden Globes may have passed, but movie season is always upon us. Rain or snow scheduled for this weekend? Freezing temperatures out? Stay in those slippers, make some hot chocolate and popcorn, and cozy up with your loved ones while enjoying these new, Common Sense Media-rated movies that will inspire, educate, and build up all the members of your family.

1. Mary Poppins Returns

Whimsical and playful, this sequel follows in the original’s footsteps with its catchy songs and strong messages about imagination, gratitude, empathy, kindness, looking past the surface, and — of course — being close to your family and believing in yourself. Common Sense Media Age Rating: 6+

2. Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse

Laugh-out-loud funny, filled with teachable moments about courage and teamwork, and appealing to parents and kids of all ages — this rousingly entertaining superhero adventure is everything a great family movie should be. Oscar Winner: Best Animated Film. Common Sense Media Age Rating: 9+

3. Won’t You Be My Neighbor

This poignant documentary about Fred Rogers is a touching, triumphant tribute to a children’s TV icon. He was a remarkable man who reminded generations of young children that they mattered and were loved. Common Sense Media Age Rating: 10+

4. Black Panther

Not only is this the first film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to center on a superhero of color, but it also has deep characters, a strong storyline, and outstanding acting. Viewers get all that plus strong, smart female characters and clear themes of integrity, courage, and teamwork. Oscar Winner. Common Sense Media Age Rating: 12+

5. Crazy Rich Asians

The very rare mainstream Hollywood release to feature an all-Asian cast, this delightful rom-com is also refreshing for featuring a heroine who doesn’t need saving by a man. Plus, it has strong messages about loving yourself, staying in control, and addressing problems with dignity and class. Common Sense Media Age Rating: 13+

6. Eighth Grade

Despite some mature content, this is a great movie to watch with your teen. There’s so much here for parents and kids to unpack, from mean-girl behavior to issues around social media and screen time. And ultimately, it promotes open communication between teens and their parents, as well as courage. Common Sense Media Age Rating: 14+

Bonus!: Bao

This animated short focuses on a Chinese mother who’s sad when her son leaves home but gets another chance at motherhood when one of her dumplings springs to life. Featuring beautiful animation and a rich and nuanced exploration of motherhood, this short film from Pixar Animation Studios and director Domee Shi explores the ups and downs of the parent-child relationship through the colorful, rich, and tasty lens of the Chinese immigrant community in Canada. Oscar Winner: Best Animated Short Film.

Source: Common Sense Media. For more information about Common Sense Media ratings, visit: https://www.commonsensemedia.org/