Movies are a magical experience for all ages. Being able to get lost in fantasy worlds full of dragons, princesses, and loveable animated characters is something that we all enjoy doing. However, that isn’t to say that they are just fun and games. There are many movies on the market today that are both fun and educational, especially for children of preschool and kindergarten age.
More Than a Source of Entertainment: Why Parents Should Prioritize Movie Nights
Yes, movies are an excellent form of entertainment. Who doesn’t love a cinema trip and munching on some buttered popcorn, right? But, this pastime – which is often taken for granted by parents – offers so much more to young children from a learning perspective.
Every single year, kids’ movies are released that are full of lessons about the world around us and human behavior. Not only does this source of entertainment help to expand your child’s vocabulary, but it can also teach them important life morals and values. Just look at film production studios such as Dreamworks and Pixar. These powerhouses are the kings of communicating life events and emotions in a simple and digestible way for kids to understand.
Ready to start making movie nights a regular weekend activity for you and your family? Below, we’ve put together a list of some of the best early childhood education movies that your family should be cuddling up to watch together.
Best 8 Educational Movies for Preschoolers
This list of educational movies for kindergarten-aged kids includes a handful of popular Pixar movies as well as some cherished classics. All of these kids’ movies are bound to bring a smile (and maybe even a tear) to your face and theirs.
1. Finding Nemo
Released in 2003, this animated movie has become one of the great classics in the family movie genre. Focused on the story of Nemo and his father Marlin, this movie touches on the importance of family and friendships. As we follow Marlin on his search for his son, kids are taught about how to be brave in the face of adversity but also how to value those who help us in times of need.
Dare we say it, this movie will also teach your kids to “just keep swimming” out of their comfort zone and to push through any obstacles that life throws at them.
2. The Lion King
We couldn’t keep this classic off the list if we tried. The Lion King is a movie full of adventure, bravery, forgiveness, and friendship. Recently re-released as a live-action movie, the story follows Simba, a lion cub who is in line to become king of the Savannah. However, his evil uncle Scar has other plans and does everything in his power to make sure that Simba will never be king.
Fleeing after the death of his father, Simba struggles with his guilt and grief. With the help of his friends Timon, Pumba, and Nala we see Simba mature into a wonderful friend and a brave lion who is ready to rule his kingdom with honor and respect.
As an early childhood educational movie, it will teach your child about the power of forgiveness, love, and responsibility. It also gives the strong message that no matter how hard the journey can get, you have the strength to make it back home.
3. Babe
While a pig may not be everyone’s favorite farmyard animal, this movie will be sure to capture the hearts and attention of preschoolers everywhere. Following the story of Babe, a loveable and friendly piglet who defies all odds and shows that he is capable of achieving anything he sets his mind to – even if that is herding sheep.
This educational kids movie will teach your child lessons about perseverance, being confident in their abilities, and why it is important to always be a nice person.
4. The Incredibles
This highly entertaining and funny movie follows the story of the Incredibles, a family that had to go into retirement and keep their powers hidden from the real world. Until an old arch-nemesis of Mr. Incredible returns and threatens to destroy the world. The family must now come together and do everything they can to save humanity.
A movie about a family of superheroes? We’re sold already. But, what will your kids learn besides the fact that superheroes are cool? This movie teaches children about the importance of unity and working together while also reminding them about the responsibility of looking out for each other.
5. Toy Story 2
There is not a parent alive that doesn’t know of the amazing duo that is Woody and Buzz Lightyear. Toy Story 2 is one of the greatest educational movies for kindergarten kids as it cleverly explains concepts of loyalty and family.
The second installment of the Toy Story movies, which sees Woody being introduced to the famous Round-Up gang, expanding on the concept of family. The highlight of Jessie’s past and how you can find new friendships in unexpected ways is another amazing way that children can process emotions such as love and sadness.
6. Inside Out
We all know that young children can struggle to understand their emotions and what better way to help them learn about feelings than by watching Inside Out. Another masterpiece by Disney Pixar, this animation will guide you through the rollercoaster of emotions a young girl called Riley experiences when she moves to a new city.
This movie excellently describes each emotion that humans can have daily in a visually creative way. It also teaches children that it is ok to feel big emotions such as sadness or grief. The main takeaway that your child will learn from this movie, however, is that there is always room for joy and hope.
7. How to Train Your Dragon
Another great addition to a list of educational movies for kids is How to Train Your Dragon by Dreamworks Studios. Introducing your child to a world of Vikings and dragons, this animated movie is full of action, excitement, and heartwarming moments.
Following the story of Hiccup, the son of a famous dragon slayer who is expected to follow in his Dad’s footsteps, we see Hiccup develop an unlikely friendship with a dragon called Toothless and change the course of his future for good.
Teaching important life lessons such as fighting for what you believe in and understanding how far family will go to make sure that you’re happy and safe. This is a story about not being afraid to be different, amazing friendships, and that love is truly unconditional.
8. Wall-E
Wall-E is a heartwarming and adorable movie that follows the story of a robot named Wall-E and his pet cockroach. After humans abandoned Earth, Wall-E was the only one left behind on the planet to spend his days cleaning up garbage.
When another robot called Eve is sent to Earth to find signs of life, the robotic pair are sent on a journey that will not determine the fate of humans but also, the strength of their love. This children’s movie expertly discusses the topic of climate change and the importance of caring for our environment. Also, it teaches children to always stay inspired and curious about the world around them.
How Vivvi’s Early Learning Model Balances Fun and Education
At Vivvi, our philosophy is to nurture your child’s natural curiosity through activities that are both fun and educational. While our campuses are screen-free, we engage your child in other creative activities such as arts and crafts and storytelling to help them develop important life skills e.g. communication skills, patience, and independence.
Our early learning program, which builds curriculums around each child’s age, not only boosts their confidence but also gives them the tools they need to hit those all-important early childhood milestones. For more information about the Vivvi Learning Model or to schedule a tour of one of our New York campuses, get in touch with the Vivvi team today.