Best Kids Movies of 2024 to Keep Your Whole (Film) Crew Entertained

Whether it’s a rainy day just right for snuggling on the couch, a sleepover, or simply a cozy family Sunday afternoon, there’s nothing better than enjoying a great kids’ movie. Below we round up the best films of the year so far, as well as new kids’ movies 2024 scheduled for release over the coming months, that will keep your whole clan entertained.

Whether you’re looking for an epic adventure, a heart-warming tale with a happy ending, or a highly anticipated sequel, you’ll find the perfect flick in our guide! Let’s dive in.

Contents:

• Movie and TV Ratings Guide for Parents
• Best Kids’ Movies of 2024 So Far
• Kids Movies Coming Out in 2024 to Watch Out For
• FAQs

Movie and TV Ratings Guide for Parents

NDAB Creativity/Shutterstock.com

Before choosing a movie or TV show for your child, it’s essential to understand the various ratings that indicate the suitability of the content. These ratings help you gauge whether a particular film or show is appropriate for your child’s age and maturity level.

Below is a comprehensive guide to these ratings, so you can make informed decisions before movie night.

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Selecting the right content for your child is crucial, and understanding these ratings can guide your choices. Always consider the content’s nature and your child’s maturity level before allowing them to watch a movie or TV show.

Movies and TV shows can be a great way for kids to relax, but it’s important to maintain a balance. The Kids360 app helps you track and limit screen time, while also providing interactive tasks that reward extra screen time for positive activities. This ensures that your child’s screen time is both enjoyable and well-managed.

Best Kids’ Movies of 2024 So Far

Turning Red (PG)

Still from Turning Red © 2024 Pixar Animation Studios

• Release date: February 2024
• Where to watch: Disney+
• Rating: 4.5/5

A must-watch for those with a tween or teen daughter, Pixar’s Turning Red is a coming-of-age tale with thirteen-year-old Mei Lee at its heart. Mei is going through the emotional rollercoaster that is puberty, and the movie is a great gateway for discussions around things like crushes and periods, which are discussed in the film. And, given that Mei transforms into a huge red panda when she gets overexcited, it’s wildly entertaining, too!

The Tiger’s Apprentice (PG)

Still from The Tiger’s Apprentice © 2024 Paramount Studios

• Release date: February 2024
• Where to watch: Disney+
• Rating: 4.5/5

An animated adventure based on the kids’ book of the same name, The Tiger’s Apprentice tells the story of Tom Lee, who makes an amazing discovery about his family: they have been the protectors of a phoenix egg for centuries. Now Tom must learn from his mentor, Mr Hu, if he is to continue his family’s legacy—which also involves saving the entire world.

Orion and the Dark (TV-Y7)

Still from Orion and the Dark © 2024 Netflix Studios

• Release date: February 2024
• Where to watch: Netflix
• Rating: 4/5

Orion is a boy with many fears, including heights and pets. But the thing that terrifies him the most is the dark.

This is a great movie for encouraging kids to face their anxieties head-on and live life to the fullest. After all, if Orion can overcome his fear of the dark, they can beat their own worries, too.

When The Dark takes Orion on a magical nighttime adventure, he realizes just how far his fears have been holding him back, and what a wide and wonderful world is out to enjoy.

Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home Franklin (TV-Y7)

Still from Snoopy Presents: Welcome Home Franklin © 2024 WildBrain Studios

• Release date: February 2024
• Where to watch: Apple TV+
• Rating: 3.5/5

Although not a full-length feature this new Snoopy movie offers a great half-hour or so of entertainment for young kids—and Peanuts fans of all ages.

Franklin is the focus of this tale; he moves around a lot with his military family, so finds himself needing to make friends, something many kids may have struggled with. When he discovers a cache of letters from his grandfather, Franklin finds out he’s not the only one who has faced this problem and finds plenty of helpful advice to help him make new connections.

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (PG13)

Still from Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire © 2024 Columbia Pictures

• Release date: March 2024
• Where to watch: Amazon Prime
• Rating: 4/5

Great for older kids, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, released at theaters earlier this year, is now available to stream. Fans of the original series will appreciate the throwbacks that see the original Ghostbusters—as well as the next generation of the Spengler family—teaming up to face a new generation of spectral menaces. The PG13 rating reflects the fact that there’s some mild violence and scares, as well as some swearing and mature references.

Damsel (PG13)

Still from Damsel © 2024 Netflix Studios

• Release date: March 2024
• Where to watch: Netflix
• Rating: 4/5

Another movie suitable for older kids, fantasy adventure flick Damsel sees Millie Bobby Brown in the role of Elodie, who must escape a fierce dragon’s lair. Flipping the traditional fairy tale tropes on their head, in this story, the princess has been thrown into the dragon’s cave as a sacrifice by the handsome prince—and she must survive where a slew of unfortunate knights and other adventurers have met a grisly end. With her wit, strength, and the help of the clues left behind by previous princess sacrifices, Elodie may just have a chance to make it out alive…

The Casagrandes Movie (TV-Y7)

Still from Damsel © 2024 Netflix Studios

• Release date: March 2024
• Where to watch: Netflix
• Rating: 3.5/5

School’s out in the Casagrandes household, but an unexpected family trip to Mexico puts the kybosh on Ronnie Anne’s plans for her twelfth birthday celebrations, and she’s determined to prove to her family members that she really is old enough to do her own thing. But is she? Unfortunately, Ronnie Anne’s decision puts her on a collision course with a preteen demigod with a serious case of angst.

Powder Pup (PG)

Still from Powder Pup © 2024 Convoke Media, Mannifest Productions, Oracle Film Group Studios

• Release date: March 2024
• Where to watch: Amazon Prime
• Rating: 3.5/5

Californian surfer Shaun is distraught when his dad tells him they’re moving to the mountains of Montana. Everything changes, though, when teenage Shaun meets a dog who can snowboard! With his canine companion by his side, Shaun decides to make a play for the annual snowboarding championships—but does the unlikely pair really have a chance to triumph?

Kids will enjoy this gentle drama about the sadness of leaving old things behind, but the new doors that can open as a result.

Luca (PG)

Still from Luca © 2024 Pixar Animation Studios

• Release date: March 2024
• Where to watch: Amazon Prime and Disney+
• Rating: 4/5

This Pixar re-release follows two young boys in Italy who dream of owning a Vespa of their own. But they have a huge secret: they’re not from this world at all, but are sea creatures from a realm below the waves. But for Luca, all he wants is to enjoy an unforgettable summer—and get that Vespa, of course!

Woody Woodpecker Goes to Camp (PG)

Still from Woody Woodpecker Goes to Camp © 2024 Universal Animation Studios, Universal 1440 Entertainment

• Release date: April 2024
• Where to watch: Netflix
• Rating: 3.5/5

When Woody Woodpecker gets kicked out of the forest he makes a new home in Camp Woo Woo. But just when he thinks he’s found his forever home, an inspector appears with his sights set firmly on shutting down the camp.

A mix of live-action and animation, this movie is the perfect pick for younger kids, who will love the lively sequences and slapstick comedy.

The Barkers: Mind the Cats (TV-Y7)

Still from The Barkers: Mind the Cats © 2024 Studio Melnitsa

• Release date: April 2024
• Where to watch: Amazon Prime
• Rating: 3.5/5

Based on the characters from The Barkers television series of 2011, this feature-length movie follows Kid Barker, who is feeling left out when his older siblings are too busy to spend any time with him. However, when the family’s jet pack is stolen by a pair of naughty cats, Kid Barker’s help is needed to get it back.

Young kids will be thoroughly entertained by the story, engaging characters, and super catchy tunes.

The Garfield Movie (PG)

Still from The Garfield Movie © 2024 Columbia Pictures

• Release date: May 2024
• Where to watch: Netflix
• Rating: 4/5

Everyone’s favorite wise-cracking cat hit the big screen earlier this year and is about to become available to stream on Netflix. Chris Pratt is the voice of the fabulously deadpan feline, and he’s joined by his long-suffering owner Jon, and Odie the dog.

Kids will love the fun and silliness, and adults who enjoyed the original 1980s comic strip will appreciate how closely the movie sticks to the cartoon’s humor and vibe. The storyline touches on issues of family, belonging, and feelings of abandonment, which may spark some wide-ranging conversations once the final credits roll.

If (PG)

Still from If © 2024 Sunday Night Productions, Maximum Effort

• Release date: May 2024
• Where to watch: Paramount +
• Rating: 4.5/5

If has a wonderful premise: what if you could see the former imaginary friends of kids who, as they’ve grown up, have left them behind? That’s exactly what Bea can do, and she helps these forlorn and forgotten pals find their long-lost human buddies.

This magical, plot-rich story contains themes of loss and grief, but they’re dealt with using a light, sensitive touch, meaning it’s unlikely to be too much for young kids. Warning for the adults, though: you may want to get the tissues ready!

Thelma the Unicorn (PG)

Still from Thelma the Unicorn © 2024 Netflix Studios

• Release date: May 2024
• Where to watch: Netflix
• Rating: 3.5/5

Looking for a vibrant, fun movie to brighten up a rainy afternoon? Let us introduce you to Thelma the Unicorn! Thelma is a pony with a dream: to become a beautiful unicorn. Amazingly her dream comes true overnight, and she finds herself in the middle of a whirlwind of celebrity and excitement. However, Thelma soon discovers that fame isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, and she realizes that both her beautiful, authentic self and the friends who love her may be at risk.

The clever sub-commentary on the vacuity of internet fame is done extremely well and provides food for thought for both adults and kids alike.

Inside Out 2 (PG)

Still from Inside Out 2 © 2024 Pixar Animation Studios

• Release date: May 2024
• Where to watch: Amazon Prime
• Rating: 4.5/5

Everyone loved the original Inside Out movie, released back in 2015, so kids and adults were delighted to learn that its sequel would be appearing in 2024. It’s just become available for streaming, and is the perfect choice for a lazy afternoon family film marathon!

Riley returns as a teenager, meaning that Joy—along with all the emotions—is being kept really busy helping her navigate this new phase. The movie may explore growing pains, in all their forms, but does so in a light-hearted, humorous way that’ll help kids going through the same developmental stage.

Related: Inside Out 2: Exploring New Emotions and Navigating the Teenage Years.

Kung Fu Panda 4 (PG)

Still from Kung Fu Panda 4 © 2024 DreamWorks Animation

• Release date: July 2024
• Where to watch: Prime Video
• Rating: 4/5

This year has also seen the release of Kung Fu Panda 4, with the cuddly and unlikely hero Po returning for a new adventure. Po is all set to become the spiritual leader of the Valley of Peace, and life is looking great…but before this can happen he needs to find someone who can take his place to become the new Dragon Warrior.

Despicable Me 4 (PG)

Still from Despicable Me 4 © 2024 Universal Pictures, Illumination

• Release date: July 2024
• Where to watch: Currently in movie theaters, available to stream on Peacock imminently
• Rating: 4/5

The hugely popular Despicable Me franchise has returned for the latest installment this year and will be hitting streaming services soon. There’s a new member of the family to meet in the latest movie: Gru Jr! Domestic bliss is shortlived, however, as a new enemy arrives on the scene to threaten the clan’s happiness: Maxime Le Mal and his girlfriend, who forces the Gru family, along with their Minions, to go on the run. Don’t be tempted to turn off when the final credits start to roll, or you’ll miss the Minions’ mischief!

Descendants: The Rise of Red (PG)

Still from Descendants: The Rise of Red © 2024 Suzanne Todd Productions, Potato Monkey Productions, GWave Productions, LLC

• Release date: July 2024
• Where to watch: Disney+
• Rating: 4/5

The Descendants franchise is loved by tweens and teens, and it’s no surprise why. With the movies’ casts of vibrant characters, great songs, and exciting plotlines—which often deal with themes and issues “regular” kids have to contend with—this latest installment was an eagerly anticipated addition to the canon.

Mal is now head of Auradon Prep and has opened the school to all kingdoms, thereby allowing Red, the Queen of Heart’s daughter, to attend. Trouble soon brews, though, and Red and her new group of friends will have to go back in time if they want to save their beloved school…

The Imaginary (PG)

Still from The Imaginary © 2024 Blumhouse Productions, Tower of Babble

• Release date: July 2024
• Where to watch: Netflix
• Rating: 4.5/5

This beautiful Japanese animated film is based on the book by A.F. Harrold and illustrated by Emily Gravett. It tells the story of Amanda and her imaginary friend Rudger and the adventures that Amanda dreams up for them to experience together. The film deals with some difficult themes but does so carefully, and is full of whimsical magic. It also features one of animation’s scariest villains, Mr Bunting who, to maintain a connection with his own human pal, eats other imaginary friends.

Harold and the Purple Crayon (PG)

Still from Harold and the Purple Crayon © 2024 Columbia Pictures, Davis Entertainment, TSG Entertainment

• Release date: August 2024
• Where to watch: Currently in movie theaters nationwide
• Rating: 4.5/5

Looking for feel-good summer kids’ films? The wonderful Harold and the Purple Crayon could be the perfect choice, and it’s currently showing in theaters nationwide. Adapted from the popular novel, the story focuses on Harold, who has the power to make anything come to life simply by drawing it—a concept that young children especially will be enchanted by. Eventually, he draws himself into the real world, and it’s only the purple crayon that retains the ability to bring the boy’s imagination to life in this new environment he must learn to navigate.

Ryan’s World the Movie: Titan Universe Adventure (PG)

Still from Ryan’s World the Movie: Titan Universe Adventure © 2024 Sunlight Entertainment, PocketWatch

• Release date: August 2024
• Where to watch: Currently in movie theaters nationwide
• Rating: 3/5

In his first feature film, YouTuber Ryan Kaji has to transform into a superhero—Red Titan—to rescue his twin sisters when they’re sucked into a comic book. He must triumph in battles, overcome obstacles, and get through a range of mishaps to reach his sisters and get everyone back home to the real world before his parents realize they’re missing.

А good children’s movie is a great way for kids to spend their time. But remember, everything is best in moderation. Keep an eye on how much time your child spends in front of screens to ensure it doesn’t harm them. The Kids360 app can help you with that!

Kids Movies Coming Out in 2024 to Watch Out For

The Wild Robot (TBC)

Still from The Wild Robot © 2024 DreamWorks Animation

• Release date: September 2024
• Where to watch: In movie theaters from September 27
• Rating: Not yet rated

Dreamwork Animation’s upcoming movie is based on the science fiction kids’ series by Peter Brown. We follow the adventures of Roz, a robot that’s shipwrecked on an island and needs to adapt to its new home, and bond with its animal neighbors.

A survival story with a difference, this child (and adult!) friendly movie is sure to become a classic and raises some interesting questions that could make for interesting family discussions later.

Moana 2 (TBC)

Still from The Wild Robot © 2024 Walt Disney Animation Studios

• Release date: November 27
• Where to watch: In movie theaters nationwide
• Rating: Not yet rated

One of the most anticipated new releases of 2024, the prospect of Moana 2 has had kids jumping for joy since the first trailer was released earlier this year. Auli’i Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson return to reprise their roles of Moana and Maui respectively, and there’s a slew of fantastic new songs to sing along to—trust us, by the end of the year, you’ll know them all word for word!

Wicked (TBC)

Still from Wicked © 2024

• Release date: November 27
• Where to watch: In movie theaters nationwide
• Rating: Not yet rated

The incredibly popular stage show gets the Hollywood treatment in this adaptation of the modern Broadway classic. It’s the origin story of Elphaba and Glinda—the Wicked Witch and the Good Witch of Oz, and stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariane Grande in the lead roles, joined by a host of other stars including Michelle Yeoh and Jeff Goldblum. While it’s not yet been age-rated, like the show, it’s expected to be suitable for kids over eight.

Spellbound (TBC)

Still from Spellbound © 2024 Netflix Studios

• Release date: November 22
• Where to watch: Netflix
• Rating: Not yet rated

This enchanting animated movie is set to go straight to streaming in November and is the perfect watch on a cold and chilly winter day, curled up on the couch together with hot chocolates all around.

When young Ellian’s parents are turned into monsters, she must go on a quest to rescue them… and save the whole kingdom at the same time. The songs are particularly lovely; they’re by Alan Menken, the writer of many of Disney’s most loved tunes.

Mufasa: The Lion King (TBC)

Still from Mufasa: The Lion King © 2024 Walt Disney Pictures, Pastel Productions

• Release date: December 20
• Where to watch: In movie theaters nationwide
• Rating: Not yet rated

Another sure-fire Disney smash, Mufasa: The Lion King is set to hit the big screen just in time for Christmas 2024. Viewers will learn the story of Mufasa—before he became Simba’s dad!—which is told through a series of flashbacks. There are plenty of familiar faces, including Pumbaa, Timon, and Rafiki, and the movie promises to be a heartwarming, exciting, and satisfying watch for Disney fans of all ages.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (TBC)

Still from Sonic the Hedgehog 3 © 2024 Sega Sammy Group, Original Film, Marza Animation Planet, Blur Studio

• Release date: December 20
• Where to watch: In movie theaters nationwide
• Rating: Not yet rated

The plot may be under wraps as yet, but if the plotline of the former two movies in the franchise is anything to go by, Sonic the Hedgehog 3 will be another fun romp as the super-cool blue hedgehog takes on a new nemesis! There’ll be lots of action, barrel-loads of laughs, and plenty of drama. One thing we do know for sure is that Idris Elba, Keanu Reeves, and Jim Carrey provide their vocal talent.

That Christmas (TBC)

Still from That Christmas3 © 2024 Netflix Studios

• Release date: December
• Where to watch: Netflix
• Rating: Not yet rated

From legendary writer Richard Curtis comes this magical tale of a Christmas that needs some serious fixing. The movie follows several entwined stories, weaving a tapestry of love, family, friends, loneliness, and Christmas wonder. Brian Cox, Bill Nighy, Fiona Shaw, and Jodie Whittaker are just a few of the well-known stars lending their voices to the myriad of characters.

Read also: Best Cartoons of All Time for Kids and Adults.

Get the Popcorn Ready: Choosing the Perfect Kids Film 2024

With so many great kids films already released this year, and lots more scheduled to appear over the last few months of 2024, your biggest problem may be choosing which one to watch! No worries though: why not arrange a family movie marathon afternoon, and enjoy a selection of great movies, from gripping adventures to heartwarming tearjerkers—you’ll find them all on the list above.

What kids’ film of 2024 have your kids most enjoyed so far? And do you agree? Let us know in the comments below!

FAQs

sirtravelalot/Shutterstock.com

Are there any kids’ movies coming out in 2024?

There have already been loads of great kids’ movies that have hit the screen in 2024 so far, including Turning Red, The Tiger’s Apprentice, Orion and the Dark, Inside Out 2, and If, and there are plenty more scheduled for cinema or straight-to-streaming release over the next few months.

What’s coming to the cinema in 2024?

There are several highly-anticipated kids’ movies coming to the cinema over the next few months of 2024, including Moana 2, The Wild Robot, Mufasa: The Lion King, and That Christmas.

The picture on the front page: Evgeny Atamanenko/Shutterstock.com