Family-friendly options to give little ones a taste of cinema.

The 24 best movies for toddlers, and where to watch them

Family-friendly options to give little ones a taste of cinema.

Megan Vick is a news and evergreen contributor at *. *She's been writing at ** since 2024. Her work can also be found at TVGuide.com, Swooon, *Variety*, and other outlets.

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and Kevin Jacobsen

May 18, 2026 5:00 p.m. ET

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Batman (voice: Will Arnett) in 'The LEGO Batman Movie'; Mirabel (voice: Stephanie Beatriz) in 'Encanto'; Stitch (voice: Chris Sanders) in 'Lilo & Stitch'. Credit:

Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures; Disney; Walt Disney/Courtesy Everett

Capturing the attention of toddlers is no easy feat, as any parent can attest. This is especially the case when getting them to settle in for family movie night: Their minds wander, they keep talking back to the TV, and/or the experience isn't grabbing them as you intended.

Luckily, there are numerous streaming options for kid-friendly films that won't leave parents feeling numb. So how do you separate the wheat from the chaff? We at ** have devised a list of the 24 best movies for toddlers, including enduring Disney favorites like *Moana* (2016) and colorful mood relaxers like *My Neighbor Totoro* (1988), each of which the whole family can enjoy.

Ahead, find our full list of toddler movie recommendations, and where you can stream them.**

Cars (2006)

Lightning McQueen (center, voice: Owen Wilson) in 'Cars'.

Toy cars have long been a staple among toddler playthings, so it's no wonder this Pixar franchise starter is such a hit among that demographic. Set in a world dominated by sentient automobiles, the first *Cars* film introduces us to Lightning McQueen (voiced by Owen Wilson), an arrogant rookie racer who learns valuable life lessons when stranded in a sleepy town called Radiator Springs. Lively voice performances and eye-popping animation make this a hyper-engaging watch for young ones. —*Kevin Jacobsen*

Where to watch *Cars*: Disney+

Coco (2017)

Miguel (voice: Anthony Gonzalez) and Dante in 'Coco'. Disney/Pixar

Like trying to avoid explaining how babies are made, *Coco* helps parents sidestep the nitty-gritty details of what happens when we die. It follows Miguel (Anthony Gonzalez), a young boy with a passion for music who accidentally finds himself in the Land of the Dead. Miguel finds a guide and sidekick in Hector (Gael García Bernal), a charming trickster trying to return to the land of the living. The two embark on a dazzlingly colorful adventure that reveals the real story of Miguel's family and teaches everyone to hold on to the ones they love. *—Megan Vick*

Where to watch *Coco*: Disney+

Encanto (2021)

Mirabel Madrigal (voice: Stephanie Beatriz) in 'Encanto'. Disney

EW’s critic describes *Encanto* as "a multi-generational magical epic" that encompasses what’s great about Disney — namely, the vibrant colors and incredible music (we absolutely want to talk about Bruno!). It's not a princess-in-distress narrative, though, and instead centers on Mirabel Madrigal (Stephanie Beatriz), the middle, non-powered child of a magical family. *Encanto* has a great message about inner strength and recognizing your gifts even when they aren't the most obvious to everyone else. And the songs are so good, you won't actually mind seeing the film a few hundred times. *—M.V.*

Where to watch *Encanto*: Disney+

Frozen (2013)

Elsa (voice: Idina Menzel) in 'Frozen'.

Let it go? Your toddler absolutely won't be able to once they see *Frozen* for the first time. The 2013 hit reinvigorated Disney for a new generation, starring Broadway legend Idina Menzel as ice princess Elsa and Kristen Bell as her bubbly younger sister, Anna. When Elsa decides that running away is best for the kingdom and her loved ones, Anna has to step up to save her. It's a story about sisterhood with great songs and excellent side characters, including beloved snowman Olaf (Josh Gad) and Sven, the charming reindeer pet of Anna's love interest, Kristoff (Jonathan Groff). *—M.V.*

Where to watch *Frozen*: Disney+

Lilo & Stitch (2002)

Lilo (voice: Daveigh Chase) and Stitch (voice: Chris Sanders) in 'Lilo & Stitch'.

Walt Disney/Courtesy Everett

If you haven't yet shown your toddler *Lilo & Stitch*, prepare for them to develop an obsession. While Disney released a live-action remake in theaters in May 2025, we always advocate for going back to the animated original, which tells the story of a Hawaiian girl named Lilo and the bond she forms with a cuddly blue alien she names Stitch. When it's not entertaining audiences with Stitch's mischievous antics or killer Elvis-themed soundtrack, the film provides valuable life lessons about *ohana* (family). —*K.J.***

Where to watch *Lilo & Stitch*: Disney+

*The Little Mermaid *(1989)

Ariel (voice: Jodi Benson) in 'The Little Mermaid'.

Walt Disney/Everett

Several classic animated Disney films could have made this list, so consider *The Little Mermaid* a stand-in for those. Is the tale of Ariel (Jodi Benson) learning the true value of her voice relatable? Definitely, but it's also driven home by the legendary score and music from Alan Menken and Howard Ashman. Slip on those fins and show your toddler how cool it is to be "Part of Your World." *—M.V.*

Where to watch *The Little Mermaid*: Disney+

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (1977)

Winnie the Pooh (voice: Sterling Holloway), Christopher Robin (voice: Bruce Reitherman), Kanga (voice: Barbara Luddy), and Eeyore (voice: Ralph Wright) in 'The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh'. Disney

Sometimes, the kinds of movies and shows made for toddlers can be grating for their parents. Not so with Winnie the Pooh and his friends who live in the Hundred Acre Wood, with this anthology film comprising three of their most charming adventures. As Pooh goes on a quest for honey, struggles against the elements, and tries to contain an overactive Tigger, it's impossible not to feel a sense of childhood wonder again. —*K.J.*

Where to watch *The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh*: Disney+

Moana (2016)

Moana (voice: Auli'i Cravalho) in 'Moana'. Disney

If you’re ranking Disney movies by soundtracks, don’t sleep on *Moana*. Not enough people appreciate that "How Far I'll Go" is an absolute banger. EW’s critic considers *Moana* to be a "pitch-perfect addition to the animated Disney canon,” seeing the titular character (Auli'i Cravalho) traverse the sea to save her island while promoting feel-good messages about overcoming self-doubt. *—M.V.*

Where to watch *Moana*: Disney+**

Ratatouille (2007)

Remy (voice: Patton Oswalt) in 'Ratatouille'.

Walt Disney Co./Courtesy Everett

If you live anywhere near a Disney park or have been on TikTok, you know this modern classic has been having a moment since 2024, which was declared the year of the rat boy. Don't let your toddler be behind the times! Introduce them to Remy (Patton Oswalt), a Parisian rodent who dreams of becoming a Michelin-star chef. This is a movie about chasing your dreams and sticking it to the haters, and it’s also one of the best Pixar films of the century. *—M.V.*

Where to watch *Ratatouille*: Disney+**

Rio (2011)

Linda Gunderson (voice: Leslie Mann) and Blu (voice: Jesse Eisenberg) in 'Rio'.

Blue Sky Studios/Fox

This delightful animated comedy is a feast for the eyes, centering on a macaw named Blu (voiced by Jesse Eisenberg), who, after being domesticated for 15 years in the United States, returns to his native Rio de Janeiro. He soon meets another macaw, Jewel (Anne Hathaway), and the pair tries to evade capture from a group of bird smugglers. With a concrete message about animal conservation among universal themes of friendship and identity, *Rio* is a vibrant, kid-friendly story told with heart. —*K.J.*

Where to watch *Rio*: Disney+

Toy Story (1995)

Buzz Lightyear (voice: Tim Allen) and Woody (voice: Tom Hanks) in 'Toy Story'.

Buena Vista/Courtesy Everett Collection

Pixar tapped into something truly primal with its first feature-length film. *Toy Story* imagines a world where toys have the ability to come to life when humans aren't looking, a genius concept reflective of a child's imagination. The first film in the franchise centers on the dynamic between Woody (Tom Hanks) — the long-favored toy of his owner, Andy — and Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen), Andy's flashy new toy who now captures his attention. The film's inventive, colorful world will capture any toddler's attention, with a powerful message about friendship and change. *—K.J.*

Where to watch *Toy Story*: Disney+

My Little Pony: A New Generation (2021)

Pipp Petals (voice: Sofia Carson), Zipp Storm (voice: Liza Koshy), Izzy Moonbow (voice: Kimiko Glenn), and Hitch Trailblazer (voice: James Marsden) in 'My Little Pony: A New Generation'.

Netflix/Everett

The one is for the horse girls…or the soon-to-be horse girls. A new generation of colorful ponies goes on an adventure when friendship is replaced by fear in Equestria at the beginning of *My Little Pony: A New Generation*. Disney alums Vanessa Hudgens and Sofia Carson lend their voices alongside Ken Jeong and James Marsden in this sparkling tale of kinship and found family. *—M.V.*

Where to watch: *My Little Pony: A New Generation*: Netflix**

The Secret Life of Pets (2016)

Chloe (voice: Lake Bell), Max (voice: Louis C.K.), and Mel (voice: Bobby Moynihan) in 'The Secret Life of Pets'.

Illumination Entertainment/Universal Pictures

*The Secret Life of Pets* is a kids’ movie about cute dogs and their animal friends, but with a voice cast that includes Kevin Hart, Jenny Slate, and Eric Stonestreet, you can also count on plenty of jokes made for parents. It follows Max (Louis C.K.), who thinks he's living the best life until his owner adopts another dog, Duke (Stonestreet). When the pair gets into a scrap with a group of derelict alley cats, they wind up in a truck heading for the pound. Now, these pals must make new friends and put aside their differences to return to their plush New York City apartment. *—M.V.*

Where to watch *The Secret Life of Pets*: Netflix**

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Paramount+

Blue’s Big City Adventure (2022)

Steve Burns as Steve in 'Blue's Big City Adventure'. Paramount+

In this feature film, the world's favorite mystery-solving puppy heads to the Big Apple to pursue her Broadway dreams. There's lots of singing in this adventure, plus cameos from Blue BFFs of the past, including the OG Steve Burns. *Blue's Big City Adventure* will likely be nostalgic for many parents while also being a fun watch for the toddler in your household. *—M.V.*

Where to watch *Blue's Big City Adventure*: Paramount+**

PAW Patrol: The Movie (2021)

Marshall (voice: Christian Corrao), Chase (voice: Christian Convery), Skye (voice: Mckenna Grace), and Liberty (voice: Marsai Martin) in 'PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie'.

Paramount Pictures/Everett

If you haven't heard of *PAW Patrol*, then we have to wonder if you even have a toddler in your life. In their first cinematic adventure, Ryder (Will Brisibin) and his heroic friends must band together to save Adventure City from the havoc-wreaking Humdinger. The *PAW Patrol* crew is beloved among toddlers, and parents can also appreciate how the movie tackles ideas of courage, vulnerability, teamwork, and problem-solving. *—M.V.*

Where to watch *PAW Patrol: The Movie:* Paramount+

Peppa Pig: Adventures Around the World (2024)

Mummy, Daddy, Peppa, and George Pig, and Emily Elephant with her family in 'Peppa Pig: Adventures Around the World'.

Paramount/Nickelodeon

*Peppa Pig* and *PAW Patrol *are popular in the same circles, which means streaming them in tandem could help avoid a total toddler meltdown. *Adventures Around the World* is an extended special featuring the playful pig. In the hour-long film, Peppa and her family take viewers around the globe to Hollywood, the Eiffel Tower, and the Great Barrier Reef, introducing kids to incredible worldly sights while playing games and inviting fan-favorite characters from the TV show to join in the fun. *—M.V.*

Where to watch *Peppa Pig: Adventures Around the World*: Paramount+

The Rugrats Movie (1998)

Lil (voice: Kath Soucie), Tommy Pickles (voice: E.G. Daily), Chuckie Finster (voice: Christine Cavanaugh), Phil (voice: Kath Soucie), and Dil (voice: Tara Strong) in 'The Rugrats Movie'.

Paramount/Everett

Every '90s kid probably already has this on their list because there’s nothing that screams toddler to a millennial more than *Rugrats*. The first feature film about Tommy Pickles introduces a new Rugrat into the mix: Tommy's little brother, Dylan "Dil" Pickles. Tommy doesn't do too well with Dil's arrival, but an accidental adventure forces the two to bond. Eventually, Tommy steps up to be the great older brother we knew he could be. *—M.V.*

Where to watch *The Rugrats Movie*: Paramount+**

Despicable Me (2010)

Gru (voice: Steve Carell) with his Minions in 'Despicable Me'.

Universal Pictures

Those pesky yellow Minions have arguably overshadowed Gru (Steve Carell), their supervillain leader, but we still favor this first film in the *Despicable Me* franchise. Here, audiences are introduced to Gru, whose plans to steal the Moon are complicated by his growing attachment to three orphan girls he previously adopted as part of an evil scheme. It's a lively adventure to satisfy kids and their parents alike. *—M.V.*

Where to watch *Despicable Me*: HBO Max

The LEGO Batman Movie (2017)

Batman (voice: Will Arnett) in 'The LEGO Batman Movie'. Warner Bros. Pictures

In the center of the Venn diagram of the best kids’ movies and best Batman movies sits *The LEGO Batman Movie*. The LEGO characters are cute and quippy, the mature jokes cater to adults, and your toddler can enjoy a superhero adventure without excessive violence. It's also a surprisingly emotional dig into what makes the Dark Knight the cynical hero he is — until the story forces him to open his heart to create his Justice League and save the day. *—M.V.*

Where to watch *The LEGO Batman Movie*: HBO Max

My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

Mei (voice: Chika Sakamoto) and Totoro (voice: Hitoshi Takagi) in 'My Neighbor Totoro'.

Hayao Miyazaki/Studio Ghibli

The magical world of Hayao Miyazaki is one of the best things you could introduce to the young one in your life. While the also-listed *Ponyo* is the most toddler-friendly Miyazaki film, *My Neighbor Totoro* is pure cinematic bliss. The film centers on two young sisters who move with their father to a dilapidated country house, eager to reunite with their sick mother. They soon realize their new home and its surroundings are full of spirit creatures, including the cuddly Totoro who helps them in some of their darkest moments. It's an emotional ode to sisterhood and imagination that will have most young viewers begging for a Totoro of their own. —*K.J.***

Where to watch *My Neighbor Totoro*: HBO Max**

Ponyo (2008)

Ponyo (voice: Yuuri Nara) and Sosuke (voice: Hiroki Doi) in 'Ponyo'.

This selection is for the prestige toddlers out there. Though *Ponyo *is not widely regarded as the best Studio Ghibli film, it’s arguably the most accessible for younger audiences, making it the perfect entry point. *Ponyo* follows a young goldfish princess who dreams of becoming human after she befriends a human boy named Sosuke.

While it’s usually sacrilege to recommend the dubbed version of films over subtitles, it’s probably a necessity for the toddler audience. It won't be painful, though, because Studio Ghibli recruited heavy hitters Liam Neeson, Tina Fey, Cate Blanchett, Lily Tomlin, and Matt Damon for the English voice cast. *—M.V.*

Where to watch *Ponyo*: HBO Max**

Shaun the Sheep Movie (2015)

Shaun (voice: Justin Fletcher), Bitzer (voice: John Sparkes), and Trumper (voice: Omid Djalili) in 'Shaun the Sheep Movie'.

Aardman Animation

*Shaun the Sheep Movie* is a delightful introduction to the wonders of Aardman Animation. The British claymation studio, known for its ever-popular Wallace & Gromit series and *Chicken Run *(2000), produced this dialogue-free, kid-friendly comedy adventure, which follows the titular farm sheep who desire a break from work and trick the farmer into falling asleep. A problem arises when the farmer accidentally rolls away in a van and bumps his head, causing him to lose his memory, and it's up to Shaun and his fellow sheep to rescue him and remind him of who he is. *—K.J.***

Where to watch *Shaun the Sheep Movie*: HBO Max

The Wizard of Oz (1939)

Judy Garland as Dorothy Gale in 'The Wizard of Oz'.

When informally polling toddler parents for this list, one movie consistently popped up: *The Wizard of Oz*. The story of Dorothy (Judy Garland), who is suddenly *not* in Kansas anymore after riding a tornado to the land of Oz, has been enjoyed by little kids for nearly 90 years. The songs are almost as iconic as the journey conducted by Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Cowardly Lion, and the Tin Man to corner the coveted Wizard of Oz. Pro-tip: If your toddler is prone to nightmares, fast-forward to the color part of the movie because Margaret Hamilton's Toto-stealing Almira Gulch is still terrifying. *—M.V.*

Where to watch *The Wizard of Oz*: HBO Max**

Minions: The Rise of Gru (2022)

Kevin (voice: Pierre Coffin), Gru (voice: Steve Carell), and Stuart (voice: Pierre Coffin) in 'Minions: The Rise of Gru'. Illumination

Did you think that one *Minions* movie was enough? Think again! This entry gives us the inside take on how Gru became the villain–turned–doting father we know and love. It goes a bit deeper than *Minions*, making it more enjoyable for parents while still giving toddlers something entertaining and fun. If your child latches onto Minions, it's good to have multiple movies in the rotation to scratch that itch so you're not watching the same one on repeat. *—M.V.*

Where to watch *Minions: The Rise of Gru*: Peacock**

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Source: “EW Movie”