We asked parents and kids what movies they like to watch together. The answers were quickly forthcoming, and everyone found it easy to come up with his or her own short list of “bests.” The 10 most frequently mentioned films are included below. There were so many great movies mentioned, however, that we thought it would help parents to see what other families suggested. Here's a list that can guide you at the local video store. It can also serve as a great discussion starter with your children. Ask them to name their favorites and then see if the ones they choose are on the list. Ask them why they chose a particular movie, what the best part of the movie was for them, and why they would recommend it to other families. You'll find out a lot about what's going on inside your kids' heads. Ten movies for families to share In an attempt to compile an unofficial list of favorite movies that families enjoy watching together, we gathered suggestions from dozens of families. We soon realized there were just too many nominees and everyone had his or her own favorites. People had a lot of fun simply discussing the issue. Get in on the conversation and review the list below, discuss it with your family, and compile your own list of family favorites. Then talk it over with friends to get some fresh ideas for future viewing. All that's left is to put the popcorn (right side up) in the microwave and set up the DVD.
Here are 10 family favorites that were on almost everybody's list:
The Wizard of Oz The Sound of Music Finding Nemo October Sky The Lion King It's a Wonderful Life Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory A Christmas Story
With kids 12 and over:
To Kill a Mockingbird Stand by Me
Here's a list of additional movies parents and kids recommended. (Note: Not all of these are appropriate for all ages.)
A Christmas Carol (with Alastair Sim) Marx Brothers comedies, particularly A Day at the Races and A Night at the Opera The Parent Trap (both recent and older versions) Shirley Temple's films, particularly Poor Little Rich Girl, Heidi, Curly Top, and Bright Eyes Little House on the Prairie (the series) The Lord of the Rings (the trilogy); (age considerations)
Content originally developed for Finding God parent newsletter