Family movie nights are one of my favorite traditions. But finding something that everyone wants to watch can be challenging. To make my life and yours a little easier — and save you a whole lot of time — I’ve compiled a list of non-animated, family friendly movies for your crew to enjoy.
Whether you're searching for non animated movies for kids who are officially over cartoons, or just want something the whole family can agree on without 45 minutes of scrolling — this list will come in super handy.
Just keep this post bookmarked or copy the movies into a note on your phone. Now you have ideas ready to go for your next family movie night!
Why Your Family Needs This Movie List
Wondering if this list of non animated kids movies is right for you? If any of these points sound familiar, you’ve come to the right place.
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You’re tired of animated movies. We love animated movies (Inside Out, Moana, Shrek, and Toy Story to name a few). But my oldest is 13, so she is frequently bored with many of those films. And it can be fun for everyone to switch things up!
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Ratings aren’t reliable. Did you know that PG-13-rated movies didn’t exist until 1984? So movies like Poltergeist and Raiders of the Lost Ark are rated PG, but so are Enchanted, Air Bud, and Honey, I Shrunk The Kids. Yikes.
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You’re looking for positive role models and storylines. I want my kids to watch movies that are not only witty (comedies rule in our house), but also empower and uplift them. The movies on this list are funny, heartwarming, and inspirational.
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You want to make a quick decision. No more scrolling and no more second guessing. This list will save you a ton of time with movie ideas that are both entertaining for parents and appropriate for kids.
Family bonding is important. Re-watching your favorite childhood movies with your own kids and getting to see it through their eyes is truly magical. You’ll also experience all the emotions of these funny, heartfelt movies together and can re-live the moments you loved the most.
Before I jump into the recommendations, a note:
Before watching a new movie with your kids, I always recommend checking out movie reviews on Common Sense Media. I use my best judgement before sitting down to watch a movie with my own kids, as I hate to be surprised by content that is not age appropriate for them.
Non-Animated Family Friendly Movies
Some of the best non animated movies for kids are classics from the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s, but there are a few new family movies that have made our list!
All of these movies are backed by my Ali Stamp of Approval. They are stories of friendship, self-confidence, kindness, and perseverance — the kind of movies that stick with your kids for years to come.
Family Movies With Animals
These movies are perfect for animal lovers and families with pets. If you and your kids find yourselves more emotionally invested in animal characters more than humans, you’ll love these films. And they teach great life lessons, too!
Babe
Rating: G | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
Talking animals, barnyard humor, and a sweet, little pig with big dreams! This heartwarming movie is one of my family's favorites.
Despite facing skepticism from those around him, Babe forms a special bond with Fly, a wise and nurturing border collie, who teaches him the art of sheep-herding. As he defies expectations and challenges stereotypes in the farmyard, will the other animals accept him? (1995)
Why kids love it: My kids were shocked that a “movie about a pig” could actually be this good. It started as a “fine, we’ll try it” pick and ended with them totally invested in the movie’s outcome.
Why parents love it: Babe shows why it’s important to follow your purpose, believe in yourself, and lead with kindness.
Homeward Bound
Rating: G | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney
Get the tissues ready! My kids cried their eyes out watching this movie but they still say it is one of our all-time favorites.
The film follows the heartwarming (and sometimes perilous) journey of three beloved pets back home to their family. There’s Shadow, a wise and loyal golden retriever, Chance, a fun-loving and adventurous American bulldog, and Sassy, a sassy and independent Himalayan cat. (1993)
Why kids love it: Talking animals that act like siblings make this movie very relatable for kids.
Why parents love it: This movie shows the importance of working together despite differences.
Beethoven
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
This classic movie is still as funny as it was when I was a kid. It’s one of those movies where you’re like “this would be a nightmare in real life”… but hilarious to watch.
The lives of the Newton family are turned upside down when they adopt a mischievous and lovable St. Bernard puppy named Beethoven. Be warned, though — there are some scary moments in this film, like when the evil vet hits Beethoven and tries to shoot him. (1992)
Why kids love it: My kids could not stop laughing at the chaos this dog brings.
Why parents love it: This movie shows the dedication that goes into taking care of a pet and how they become part of the family.
Free Willy
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
My kids loved this movie. They were jumping up and down at one point in the film, rooting for our favorite killer whale!
Jesse is an orphan with a troubled past. When he is assigned to community service at a rundown marine park, he meets Willy, a captive orca whale forced to perform in a dilapidated tank for the entertainment of visitors. As Jesse forms a bond with Willy, he becomes determined to set his new friend free and reunite him with his family in the open ocean. (1993)
Why kids love it: This underdog story empowers kids to protect wildlife and stand up for what they believe is right.
Why parents love it: This movie shows how finding your purpose can change the path you’re on.
Air Bud
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney
Can you tell we love movies with animals as the star? I'll be honest, though — I did not have high expectations going back to this one. But we were all cheering for Buddy by the end, and my youngest immediately wanted to know if dogs could actually play basketball.
Air Bud follows Josh Fram, a young boy struggling with the recent loss of his father, and Buddy, a golden retriever with an extraordinary talent for basketball. As Josh and Buddy's bond strengthens, they discover that Buddy's remarkable skills on the court could be the key to saving Josh's school basketball team. (1997)
Why kids love it: Is there anything more adorable than a golden retriever performing basketball tricks? (And without CGI!)
Why parents love it: This movie shows kids how to navigate loss with the help of your support system — and why loyalty, kindness, and teamwork matter.
Adventure Movies for Families
I love family friendly movies that allow kids to experience a fun and thrilling adventure from the comfort of their home. All of these movies also manage to be funny while highlighting valuable life lessons.
Honey I Shrunk The Kids
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney
This is still one of my all-time favorite movies. And who doesn’t love Rick Moranis?
Amy, Nick, and their neighbors Russell and Ron are accidentally shrunk to miniature size by their father's latest invention. As the kids navigate their own backyard turned into a jungle of giant insects and towering obstacles, they must rely on their wits, resourcefulness, and newfound friendships to survive and find a way back to normal size. (1989)
Why kids love it: My kids think this movie is hilarious and they laughed through the entire film.
Why parents love it: This movie shows how everyone can come together to problem solve and overcome challenges.
Hook
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
Hook is definitely funnier than I remember it! One of my kids didn’t love it, but the others will randomly chat “RUFIO” (IYKYK).
This enchanting tale imagines what happens when Peter Pan grows up and forgets about his magical past. Peter Banning, now a busy and cynical corporate lawyer, must rediscover who he is and embrace his destiny as the legendary Peter Pan when his children are kidnapped by the nefarious Captain Hook. (1991)
Why kids love it: A fantasy world filled with imagination, adventure, and kids as the leaders — what’s not to love?
Why parents love it: This movie is a great reminder for parents to prioritize playfulness, joy, and fun.
Bedtime Stories
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney
My kids introduced me to this movie and it cracks me up. As usual, Adam Sandler is a pro at physical comedy.
Skeeter Bronson is a hotel handyman who discovers that the bedtime stories he tells his niece and nephew magically come true the next day. As Skeeter's fantastical tales of knights, cowboys, and space adventures start to influence his own life, he learns valuable lessons about family, love, and the power of believing in yourself. (2008)
Why kids love it: The kids get creative control over an adult’s life — and the movie is packed with fun, outlandish adventures.
Why parents love it: This movie emphasizes that life doesn’t always go as planned, but good things can still happen.
Night at the Museum
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney+
We have watched this one so many times and it never gets old. It is the perfect "let's watch something fun tonight" movie. As someone who volunteers at a science museum weekly, the thought of the exhibits coming to life after dark sure is a fun one!
Larry Daley is a down-on-his-luck dad who lands a job as a night security guard at the Museum of Natural History. What he doesn't know is that every night, when the sun goes down, every exhibit comes to life — from a T-Rex skeleton who acts like a puppy, to warring Roman and Hun armies, to a miniature cowboy and Roman general who cannot stop fighting each other. Pure chaos, pure fun. (2006)
Why kids love it: The exhibits coming to life is such a brilliant concept. Kids are immediately invested in every single character. Bonus: it sneaks in actual history in the most fun way possible.
Why parents love it: Ben Stiller's physical comedy is chef's kiss, and the movie has a genuinely sweet message about a dad showing up for his kid. It hits different as a parent.
Sports Movies for Families
These feel-good movies feature underdog stories that are inspiring and rewarding for both kids and parents. They also show the importance of teamwork, effort, and growth.
Secretariat
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney
My kids love all things horse related, and Secretariat is no exception. As a mom to three daughters, I also love how empowering it is for young girls to see a strong female lead.
Based on the remarkable true story, the film follows the journey of Penny Chenery, as she defies the odds and challenges the male-dominated world of horse racing. With unwavering determination, Penny takes over her ailing father's thoroughbred racing stable and leads the legendary racehorse Secretariat to the Triple Crown victory in 1973, becoming the first horse in 25 years to achieve such a feat. (2010)
Why kids love it: Kids get to see that they can dream big and achieve their goals. Plus the horse racing is exciting!
Why parents love it: This film is a masterclass in determination and doing things your way, even when no one believes in you.
The Mighty Ducks
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney
Sports lover or not, this 90s classic movie about the benefits of teamwork still rings true today. And like many of the family friendly movies in this list, it holds a lot of nostalgia for me. QUACK! QUACK! QUACK!
This heartwarming underdog story follows Gordon Bombay, a hotshot lawyer forced to coach a struggling youth hockey team as part of his community service sentence. Initially reluctant, Bombay finds redemption and purpose as he transforms the misfit team of young players, known as the Ducks, into a formidable force on the ice. (1992)
Why kids love it: There are tons of funny, mischievous, and memorable moments for kids to enjoy.
Why parents love it: Seeing the positive transformation (for both the players and the coach) is uplifting and rewarding.
Cool Runnings
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney
I loved this movie as a kid. Now that my kids have seen it, they can't stop quoting it. “Feel the rhythm! Feel the rhyme! Get on up, it’s bobsled time!”
Inspired by the true story of the Jamaican bobsled team's improbable journey to the Winter Olympics, the film follows the misfit group of athletes as they defy the odds and pursue their dreams of competing on the world stage. (1993)
Why kids love it: It’s funny, inspiring, and a must-see for any kid who enjoys watching the Olympics.
Why parents love it: This movie redefines what success looks like and shows strong, diverse role models.
Rookie of the Year
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney
My girls don't watch a ton of sports movies, but when I asked on Instagram what your boys favorite movie was, Rookie of the Year came up over and over. And my girls thought this one was hilarious.
12-year-old baseball fan Henry Rowengartner, miraculously becomes a Major League Baseball pitcher after breaking his arm and discovering an unexpected talent for throwing 100 mph fastballs. With the support of his quirky teammates, Henry navigates the challenges of fame and fortune while learning valuable lessons about friendship, teamwork, and staying true to oneself. (1993)
Why kids love it: Kids with big dreams and wishes will love this movie — especially if they want to play a sport professionally!
Why parents love it: This movie shows that kids should enjoy their childhood — the pressure to perform, make money, and be successful can come later.
Family Classic Movie Picks
These family friendly movies are timeless classics that never get old and hold so much nostalgia. Getting to re-experience these movies with your kids is rewarding and helps you connect as a family.
The Sound of Music
Rating: G | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney
Singing along to this musical never gets old. My kids will randomly start singing My Favorite Things or Sixteen Going on Seventeen, or a rousing edition of So Long, Farewell before bedtime… Can you blame them?
Set against the backdrop of pre-World War II Austria, the film follows the enchanting story of Maria, a spirited young woman who leaves her convent to become the governess for the seven children of widowed naval captain Georg von Trapp. Through the power of music and love, Maria brings joy and laughter back into the von Trapp household, while also capturing the heart of Captain von Trapp. (1965)
Why kids love it: The songs are so catchy that kids don't even realize they're watching a movie from 1965. Even kids who "don't like musicals" tend to come around on this one.
Why parents love it: This musical teaches courage, family loyalty, and standing up for what's right.
Back to the Future
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Peacock
This is one of those classics that never gets old, no matter how many times you watch it. We've seen it more times than I can count and it holds up every single time. Like, embarrassingly well for an 80s movie.
Marty McFly accidentally travels back to 1955 in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his eccentric best friend, Doc Brown. Now he has to find a way back to the future — without accidentally preventing his parents from ever falling in love. The plot is so cleverly constructed that even older kids and adults are locked in the whole time. (1985)
Why kids love it: Time travel, a flying car, a wild scientist best friend, and a ticking clock; this movie is pure adventure from start to finish. It's the rare "old movie" that kids forget is old about 10 minutes in.
Why parents love it: The nostalgia is unmatched, the humor holds up, and watching your kids discover it for the first time is genuinely one of the great parenting moments. You're welcome in advance.
Ali's Pro Tip: Watch all three as a series, but go in with realistic expectations. Part one is a masterpiece. Part two is... not our favorite. Part three brings it back in the best way and is honestly so fun. We loved it.
The Goonies
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Max
This is one of those movies that defined an entire generation of kids — and holds up beautifully for the next one. Adventure, friendship, and an actual treasure hunt? My kids were hooked from the opening scene.
When a group of misfit kids in a small Oregon town discover an old treasure map in Mikey's attic, they set off on an underground adventure to find the legendary pirate treasure of One-Eyed Willy — with a family of criminals hot on their trail the whole time. (1985)
Why kids love it: A band of kids going on a wild adventure completely on their own terms — no adults saving the day — is every kid's dream scenario.
Why parents love it: Pure nostalgia for anyone who grew up in the 80s. And watching your kids experience it for the first time — seeing their eyes go wide at the pirate ship — is a magical moment.
Ali's Pro Tip: Check Common Sense Media before watching with younger kids. There's some language and scary moments that are worth knowing about ahead of time. I’d suggest ages 8 and up.
The Sandlot
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney
You could argue that this is a sports movie, but I think it’s more about childhood fun, friendships, and unforgettable summers. My daughters think the ending made the whole movie… so stick with this one!
Set in the summer of 1962, the film follows a group of young boys who bond over their shared love of baseball and their adventures at the local sandlot. Led by Scotty Smalls, the new kid in town, the boys form a tight-knit team and embark on a series of misadventures, including facing off against the feared neighborhood dog, "The Beast." (1993)
Why kids love it: The freedom of playing with friends in the summer leads to memorable moments you’ll always remember.
Why parents love it: This movie takes me back to my own childhood and what it feels like to be a kid — especially in the 90s!
The Parent Trap
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney+
Remakes often fail to live up to the original movie, but this 1998 version is so good. It is both hilarious and heart warming. One of my girls even made our own handshake with her Dad after seeing Annie and Marvin’s handshake dance.
Identical twins, Annie and Hallie, were separated at birth and each raised by their biological parents (yes, a weird premise). Unaware of each other's existence, the twins coincidentally meet at a summer camp, bond over shared experiences, and then attempt to reunite their parents. (1999)
Why kids love it: From feuding with each other to becoming friends, the twins’ story is a fun one to watch.
Why parents love it: This movie shows the complexity of family dynamics and reminds parents how much kids want to see them connected.
Fairytales & Fantasy Movies
Everyone, no matter how old you are, loves the chance to escape into a movie and immerse themselves into a different world where anything is possible. Kids, especially, love seeing young characters be in charge, so it’s important for parents to show them movies with positive role models.
The Princess Diaries
Rating: G | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney, Hulu
This is one of our ultimate comfort movies. We’ve watched it more times than I can count!
The 2001 classic follows Mia Thermopolis as she navigates discovering that she is the heir apparent to the throne of Genovia. With her friends in tow, Mia tries to navigate through the challenges of royalty while staying true to herself. (2001)
Why kids love it: Mia’s awkwardness is relatable and her transformation is endearing. Also, is there anything better than finding out you’re actually a princess and part of a royal family?
Why parents love it: Mia's journey is all about learning that who you are on the inside matters more than how you look or how perfectly you perform. It's a great confidence boost in movie form, especially for girls navigating that middle school season.
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, HBO Max, Peacock
My kids LOVE Harry Potter. I mean, is there a better heroine than Hermione Granger?
Harry Potter discovers his magical heritage on his eleventh birthday when he receives a letter of acceptance to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Alongside his friends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, Harry navigates the challenges of wizarding school while uncovering dark secrets about his past and facing off against the dark wizard Lord Voldemort. (2001)
Why kids love it: A kid who feels ordinary suddenly discovers he's anything but and gets whisked away to a world of magic, friendship, and adventure. Every child who has ever felt like they didn't quite fit in will see themselves in Harry, Ron, or Hermione.
Why parents love it: The themes of loyalty, bravery, and choosing what's right over what's easy are woven through every scene. Plus it's genuinely fun to watch as an adult.
Ali’s Pro Tip: The first three movies in the series are not overly scary. Use your judgement on the latter movies in the series.
Freaky Friday
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney
Hilarity, challenges, and misunderstandings arise when Tess and Anna (mother and daughter) magically switch bodies and struggle to navigate each other's lives. You and your kids will be giggling as they grapple with the responsibilities of school, work, and relationships. (2003)
Why kids love it: Getting to watch an adult completely fail at being a teenager? Absolutely hilarious. My kids could not stop laughing at Tess trying to navigate high school while Anna attempts to run a therapy practice.
Why parents love it: Freaky Friday builds empathy in the most fun way possible. Watching a parent and kid literally swap lives? It opens up great conversations about perspective and what it's like to walk in someone else's shoes.
A Cinderella Story
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime
Another modern take on the classic fairy tale. My girls do roll their eyes at Austin not figuring out who Sam actually is, but they still ask to watch this movie all the time. Also, the inner teenage Ali is quite happy to watch Chad Michael Murray over and over again.
Filled with humor, romance, and heartwarming moments, this romantic comedy follows the journey of Sam Montgomery, a high school student who dreams of a better life beyond her stepmother's diner. Everything changes when she connects with Austin Ames, a popular jock, through genuine conversations online. (2004)
Why kids love it: Seeing an ordinary kid overcome challenges and following their dreams is inspiring. Plus fairytale stories with predictable endings are comforting!
Why parents love it: Though it is a love story, this movie also emphasizes believing in yourself and taking control of your life.
Enchanted
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Disney
This movie instantly brings me back to my younger years.
Enchanted follows the journey of Giselle, a fairy tale princess who is banished from her animated kingdom of Andalasia by an evil queen and magically transported to the bustling streets of Manhattan. She finds herself in a world where true love's kiss isn't always enough to solve problems and happily ever afters don't come easy. (2007)
Why kids love it: Kids love watching a fairy tale princess try to figure out real life in New York City. It also has lots of catchy songs and sweet, funny moments.
Why parents love it: It's a sneaky-smart commentary on fairy tale expectations vs. real relationships, told in the most fun, nostalgic way possible. Also Amy Adams is absolutely brilliant in this role.
The Greatest Showman
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Disney+, Amazon Prime
I put this movie on thinking it would be background noise and ended up completely glued to the screen. The music alone is worth it.
Hugh Jackman plays P.T. Barnum, the larger-than-life showman who built the Greatest Show on Earth from nothing. It's a story about dreaming big, building community, and learning what actually matters — told through some of the most spectacular musical numbers you'll ever watch as a family. (2017)
Why kids love it: The performances are jaw-dropping, the music is incredibly catchy (fair warning: "This Is Me" will be stuck in your head for approximately three weeks), and the circus acts are visually stunning.
Why parents love it: This movie opens up such good conversations about belonging, ambition, and what success actually costs. The message about embracing people who don't fit the mold? Genuinely powerful.
Ali’s Pro Tip: If your kids loved Enchanted or The Sound of Music, this is your next watch. My girls were singing the soundtrack on repeat within 24 hours. You've been warned!
New Non-Animated Family Movies (2020–2026)
If you’re looking for new family movies that don’t feel cheesy or overly kiddish… these are the ones we’ve actually watched and loved. Consider this your “no scrolling required” list. 💗
Rescued by Ruby
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Netflix
My nieces introduced my kids to this film at the beach last summer, and it's been a household favorite since. I still cry at the end of the movie every time I watch it.
Based on a true story, this movie is about a state trooper who struggles with ADHD and dyslexia. He dreams of joining the K-9 search and rescue unit, but continues to get rejected. After he adopts and begins to train a high-spirited shelter dog that no one wants, both of their lives change in the best way possible.
Why kids love it: A real-life dog story with an underdog twist? Instant win.
Why parents love it: This movie is a beautiful reminder that the ones who get overlooked are often the ones with the most to give, whether that's a shelter dog or a person the system keeps passing over.
Yes Day
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Netflix
This movie inspired my youngest daughter and I to have a “Yes Week” while her sisters were at camp last summer, and it was so much fun! The only rules were that I was not buying her anything with a heartbeat and that I wouldn’t intentionally destroy anything (no windows down in the car wash for us!).
The Torres family kids have always wanted a Yes Day — one full day where Mom and Dad have to say yes to everything. What follows is 24 hours of pure, glorious chaos — from a massive slip-n-slide to an all-you-can-eat candy breakfast. (2021)
Why kids love it: The idea of parents saying YES to everything is basically a dream scenario.
Why parents love it: It’s a fun reminder to loosen the rules sometimes and prioritize connection over control.
IF
Rating: PG | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Paramount+
I expected a cute kids' movie and got something that genuinely made me tear up. In a good way.
A young girl named Bea discovers she can see imaginary friends (IFs) who have been abandoned by the children who created them. Alongside a neighbor played by Ryan Reynolds, she sets out to find them new families. With an all-star voice cast (John Krasinski also directs), this movie has so much heart underneath all the whimsy. (2024)
Why kids love it: The imaginary friends are wildly creative and hilarious. Kids love spotting all the different characters and imagining what their own IF would look like.
Why parents love it: Okay, the nostalgia hit is real. This movie quietly reminds adults to hold onto wonder, imagination, and the magic of childhood, right when life gets busy enough to make you forget. Have tissues nearby.
Ali's Pro Tip: This is a beautiful one to watch right before a big transition — a new school year, a move, or any season where your kid needs a reminder that their imagination is a superpower. 💜
FAQ: Family Friendly Movies
What are the best non-animated family movies?
Some of our all-time favorites include Homeward Bound, Honey, I Shrunk The Kids, The Princess Diaries, The Mighty Ducks, The Parent Trap, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone, Freaky Friday, Cool Runnings, and Babe — but the full list above has 20+ recommendations organized by genre, so you can find the right fit for your crew!
What are the best family comedy movies that are not animated?
For family comedies, I love Beethoven, Cool Runnings, Freaky Friday, Yes Day, Bedtime Stories, and The Parent Trap. They're all laugh-out-loud funny without being animated, and they hold up for parents too.
How did you choose these family movies?
Honestly, most of these movies are ones I watched when I was a kid! Once my daughters got a little older (7 and up) and were ready to move past animated movies, I started showing them the films I loved most when I was their age. I also checked Common Sense Media because it’s easy to forget certain movie details that you may have overlooked as a kid.
What are some things to consider when choosing a family friendly movie?
Along with the obvious, like your kids’ ages and interests, you’ll want to consider your family’s values and if there are any specific content concerns. For example, maybe you’re not okay with any swearing (if so, you may want to steer clear of The Sandlot). Or maybe you know your kid is more sensitive when it comes to something potentially upsetting (like seeing animals in dangerous situations in Homeward Bound). You might also consider if the key themes and life lessons are aligned with what you want to teach your kids.
Are there certain scenes I should skip through?
I think skipping through a scene actually brings it more attention and energy than if you were to watch it. Kids may view a scene differently than you do as a parent (you will notice a lot more than they do!). And you can also use that scene as a conversation starter. Of course if a kid asks to skip something they don’t like, that’s different. You know your kids best!Does it matter when the movies came out?
Not at all! Most of these movies are favorites from my millennial childhood (movies from the 80s, 90s, and early 2000s). But there are some new family movies on it, too. I put together this list of family friendly movies when my kids were between the ages of 7-11. And I'm still adding to it two years later! They are all so funny and heartwarming that it doesn't matter how old they seem — my kids love all of them.
What are good non animated kids movies for family movie night?
Honestly? Any movie on this list! But if I had to pick a starting point, I'd go with Night at the Museum, The Mighty Ducks, or Bedtime Stories — they're crowd-pleasers for every age in the room and nobody ends up on their phone halfway through. 😂
What are the best non animated family movies for Christmas?
Home Alone is the obvious answer and an annual tradition in our house! 🎄 Check out my full list of kids' Christmas movies for even more holiday favorites.
What are the best non animated movies for kids ages 7-12?
Most of the movies on this list were chosen specifically with kids in that 7-12 range in mind. My top picks for that age group: Homeward Bound, The Sandlot, Air Bud, The Mighty Ducks, The Princess Diaries, Night at the Museum, and Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone. All are non animated kids movies that hold up for parents too!
More Movie Night Ideas You'll Love
Still looking for the perfect family movie? I've got you covered for every season and occasion! 💗
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👧 The Best Movies for Tween Girls: Because they deserve their own list
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🏆 The Best Family Friendly Sports Movies: For your little athletes
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☀️ Summer Movies for Kids: Perfect for rainy summer days
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🎃 The Best Halloween Movies for Kids: Not too scary, just right
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🎄 Kids' Christmas Movies: Our annual holiday watchlist
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💝 Valentine's Day Movies: Sweet picks for a cozy February night
