The holiday season is a magical time filled with twinkling lights, cozy gatherings, and heartwarming traditions. For families, one of the most cherished activities is curling up together to watch the best Christmas movies for kids. These films not only capture the spirit of joy, giving, and wonder but also create lasting memories that children carry into adulthood. Whether it’s animated adventures at the North Pole or live-action tales of holiday mishaps, the best Christmas movies for kids offer something for every age group, from toddlers to tweens. In this article, we’ll explore a curated selection of timeless classics and modern favorites, highlighting why they stand out as the best Christmas movies for kids. With themes of kindness, family bonds, and the magic of belief, these movies are perfect for sparking holiday cheer.
As we dive into this list of the best Christmas movies for kids, remember that many of these films have been beloved for generations, earning high praise from critics and audiences alike. Sites like Rotten Tomatoes and Common Sense Media often rate them highly for their family-friendly content.
1. The Polar Express (2004)
Directed by Robert Zemeckis and based on the beloved children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg, The Polar Express is a groundbreaking animated film that uses motion-capture technology to bring its story to life. The plot follows a young boy who, on Christmas Eve, boards a mysterious train bound for the North Pole. Along the way, he encounters a cast of quirky characters, including a wise conductor voiced by Tom Hanks, and learns profound lessons about friendship, bravery, and the power of belief.
What makes The Polar Express one of the best Christmas movies for kids is its stunning visuals and enchanting soundtrack, featuring songs like “Believe” performed by Josh Groban. The film’s themes resonate deeply with children, encouraging them to hold onto their sense of wonder even as they grow older. According to Common Sense Media, it’s suitable for ages 6 and up due to some intense scenes with perilous train rides and ghostly figures, but the overall message is uplifting. Parents appreciate how it sparks discussions about faith in the unseen, making it a staple in holiday viewing lists. The movie’s runtime of about 100 minutes keeps young audiences engaged without overwhelming them.
2. Elf (2003)
Will Ferrell stars as Buddy the Elf in this hilarious comedy directed by Jon Favreau. Buddy, a human raised by elves at the North Pole, discovers his true origins and ventures to New York City to find his biological father. Chaos ensues as Buddy’s innocent, candy-loving enthusiasm clashes with the cynicism of urban life, leading to memorable scenes like snowball fights and decorating department stores.
Elf earns its spot among the best Christmas movies for kids thanks to its blend of slapstick humor and heartfelt moments. Kids love Buddy’s childlike antics, such as eating spaghetti with syrup, while parents enjoy the subtle nods to adult themes like work-life balance. Rotten Tomatoes gives it an 85% rating, praising its feel-good energy. Common Sense Media recommends it for ages 7+, noting mild language and comic violence. At 97 minutes, it’s a quick, joyful watch that has become a modern classic, often quoted in family households during the holidays.
3. Home Alone (1990)
Macaulay Culkin shines as Kevin McCallister, an 8-year-old accidentally left behind when his family rushes off to Paris for Christmas. Kevin must defend his home from two bumbling burglars using ingenious traps made from household items, turning his suburban house into a fortress of fun and folly.
This film is frequently cited as one of the best Christmas movies for kids for its empowering story of a child overcoming fears and outsmarting adults. The physical comedy, like the iconic paint can swing and tar-covered stairs, elicits endless giggles from young viewers. However, it includes some cartoonish violence, so Common Sense Media suggests ages 10+. With a Rotten Tomatoes score of 66%, it’s celebrated for its holiday setting and themes of family appreciation. Running 103 minutes, Home Alone teaches resilience in a lighthearted way.
4. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1964)
This stop-motion classic from Rankin/Bass tells the tale of Rudolph, a young reindeer shunned for his shiny red nose, who runs away from home and embarks on adventures with misfit friends like Hermey the elf and Yukon Cornelius. Ultimately, Rudolph’s unique trait saves Christmas during a blizzard.
As one of the earliest and most enduring best Christmas movies for kids, Rudolph promotes acceptance and self-worth, timeless messages. The charming animation and catchy songs, such as “Holly Jolly Christmas,” make it a sing-along favorite. Common Sense Media rates it for ages 3+, though some bullying scenes might require parental guidance. It holds a 95% on Rotten Tomatoes. At just 47 minutes, it’s ideal for younger children.
5. Frosty the Snowman (1969)
Another Rankin/Bass gem, Frosty the Snowman, follows a group of children who build a snowman that comes to life with a magical silk hat. Frosty, voiced by Jackie Vernon, must journey to the North Pole to avoid melting, facing off against a villainous magician along the way.
The film’s simple, joyful narrative makes it a top pick among the best Christmas movies for kids, emphasizing friendship and holiday magic. Songs like the title track are infectious, and the animation style evokes nostalgia. Suitable for ages 3+ per Common Sense Media, with no scary elements beyond mild peril. This 25-minute special is perfect for short attention spans.
6. A Charlie Brown Christmas (1965)
Charlie Brown, feeling down about the commercialism of the holidays, directs a Christmas play with his Peanuts pals, discovering the true meaning of Christmas through a scraggly tree and Linus’s recitation of the Nativity story.
This special stands out in the best Christmas movies for kids for its gentle critique of materialism and focus on simplicity. The jazz soundtrack by Vince Guaraldi is iconic, and at 25 minutes, it’s accessible for all ages (3+). It has an 86% Rotten Tomatoes rating.
7. The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992)
The Muppets retell Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol with Kermit as Bob Cratchit, Gonzo as the narrator, and Michael Caine as Ebenezer Scrooge. Ghosts visit Scrooge to change his miserly ways in this musical adaptation.
Blending humor, puppets, and classic literature, this is among the best Christmas movies for kids, teaching redemption and empathy. Ages 5+ per Common Sense Media, with some spooky ghosts. 85 minutes long.
8. Arthur Christmas (2011)
In this Aardman Animations film, Santa’s high-tech operation misses one child’s gift, prompting his clumsy son Arthur to embark on a mission to deliver it before dawn.
Innovative and funny, it’s a fresh take on Santa lore, ideal for kids 6+: 97 minutes, 93% on Rotten Tomatoes.
9. Klaus (2019)
A spoiled postman teams up with a reclusive toymaker to bring joy to a feuding town, originating many Santa traditions in this hand-drawn animation.
Praised for its beautiful art and heartfelt story, ages 7+, 96 minutes, 95% rating.
10. How the Grinch Stole Christmas (1966)
The original animated special where the Grinch tries to steal Christmas from Whoville but learns its true meaning.
Classic Dr. Seuss rhymes and animation, ages 4+, 26 minutes, 100% on Rotten Tomatoes.
11. Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
A department store Santa claims to be the real deal, leading to a court case that restores faith in magic.
Timeless and uplifting, ages 6+, 96 minutes, 96% rating.
12. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Jack Skellington discovers Christmas Town and tries to bring it to Halloween Town, with mixed results.
Creative and musical, ages 7+ for spooky elements, 76 minutes, 95% rating.
In conclusion, these are the best Christmas movies for kids, providing endless entertainment and valuable lessons during the festive season. From laughter-filled comedies to touching tales of redemption, they embody the holiday spirit.
FAQ
What are the best Christmas movies for kids under 5?
For toddlers and preschoolers, opt for short specials like Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and A Charlie Brown Christmas. These have simple stories, fun songs, and minimal scary moments and are rated for ages 3+ by Common Sense Media.
Are there any new best Christmas movies for kids in recent years?
Yes, films like Klaus (2019) and The Christmas Chronicles (2018) offer fresh takes on holiday themes with modern animation and adventure. They’re great for kids 7+ and available on streaming platforms.
How can I ensure the best Christmas movies for kids are age-appropriate?
Check ratings on sites like Common Sense Media, which provide detailed reviews on content, including violence, language, and themes. Start with classics and preview if needed.
Links
- Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Christmas_films
- Medium: https://medium.com/cinemania/family-festivity-and-films-my-top-five-christmas-movies-for-kids-1ff8136c274c
- Medium: https://medium.com/the-lyons-den/the-ultimate-festive-film-marathon-top-25-christmas-movies-to-usher-in-the-holiday-cheer-d77f278d3ca7
