Finding the best movies for toddlers can be a challenge. How do you find safe movies for 2- and 3-year-olds that can keep them entertained and spark their imagination? Toddlers are well known for their short attention spans. Let’s be honest, you might only get through the first 30 minutes of a movie the first time you watch it. But movies with lots of music, upbeat characters, and interactive scenes are great for keeping toddlers engaged.
Of course, you’ll also want to keep in mind movie ratings. A G rating is usually appropriate for toddlers, but PG could have some scary scenes or themes that may go over their heads. For me, I also lean towards picking titles that I know I will love too. My kids like to watch the same movies over and over again. So, if we’re watching a new movie, it must be something that I can enjoy watching on repeat (Encanto, anyone?).
But how do you begin to find the top toddler-friendly films? With so many streaming platforms, family movie night ideas for toddlers are easier to find than ever. Here are 42 of the best movies for toddlers in 2026 you can stream now—plus, a few movies that are right under an hour long!
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Best Movies for Toddlers Under One Hour
Dr. Suess’s The Sneetches (2025)
Rated: TV-G | Run Time: 45m | Where to Watch: Netflix
Nothing like Dr. Seuss to teach a lesson in acceptance! The Sneetches are divided—half of them have green stars, and the other half do not. When certain privileges start coming to some of the Sneetches and not others, a wild scuffle to change appearance and status ensues. It’s a playful way to be reminded of the obvious fact (in a way only silliness can do) that truly we are all the same, no matter what we look like.
Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Tiger Family Trip
Rated: TV-Y | Run Time: 52m | Where to Watch: PBS Kids
If your toddler loves watching this beloved PBS Kids show, then they’ll love this under-one-hour movie. Daniel and his family are headed to Grandpere’s house, and he and his little sister Margaret learn to have fun on their very first road trip.
Jim Henson’s Wowsabout! (2026)
Rated: TV-Y | Run Time: 27m | Where to Watch: PBS Kids and PBS Kids on Prime Video
Explore the great outdoors with Roxy the hedgehog and Ronald the pig with this short film—clocking in at under 30 minutes. While Ronald has the goal of earning his Junior Ranger badge, Roxy is on a mission to show him that taking in all the beauty of Sequoia National Park is what exploration is all about. Sing along to catchy tunes and soak in the breathtaking scenery (and adorable storyline) that will have you wanting to take your next family vacay to a national park.
The Gruffalo (2009)
Rated: G | Run Time: 27m | Where to Watch: Apple TV
Based on the popular children’s book, The Gruffalo tells the story of a clever mouse who outsmarts predators in the dark woods. This story about bravery and courage is perfect for toddlers. The rhymes and storyline of this film are easy to follow for toddlers. The film’s characters will be able to keep kids engaged the entire time.
Bluey’s Big Play (2026)
Rated: TV-Y | Run Time: 48m | Where to Watch: Disney+
For kids (and parents) who are obsessed with the Heeler family, watch the theatrical stage show titled Bluey’s Big Play on Disney+, where Bluey, Bingo, Chilli, and Bandit are played by puppeteers! Bluey and Bingo are on a mission to get their dad, Bandit, off his phone so they can spend some quality time together as a family.
Best Movies for Toddlers on Disney+ and Hulu
Moana (2016)
Rated: PG | Run Time: 1h 52m | Where to Watch: Disney+
This Disney classic follows the journey of a young Polynesian girl named Moana as she sets sail across the ocean to save her people. With the help of the demigod Maui, she faces perilous challenges and discovers her own identity and connection to her island culture. Plus, the soundtrack is a 10/10. Don’t forget to watch the live-action of Moana, too!
Wish (2023)
Rated: PG | Run Time: 1h 41m | Where to Watch: Disney+
Wish is a film that will warm your heart—even the 18th time through. Asha’s powerful wish is answered in the form of a sweet ball of energy named Star. Together, the two must fight to save her kingdom from King Magnifico.
Rio (2011)
Rated: G | Run Time: 1h 41m | Where to Watch: Disney+
This family-friendly movie takes place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Rio is the story of a bird named Blu. Blu was captured as a hatchling and did not learn to fly.
Blu thinks he’s the last of his breed. Later, he discovers there are more birds just like him in the jungle. The music and colorful settings in this film will capture the attention of toddlers for sure. Once you watch Rio, you’ll definitely want to watch Rio 2.
Pooh’s Heffalump Movie (2005)
Rated: G | Run Time: 1h 16m | Where to Watch: Disney+
Winnie the Pooh and his friends head on a quest to trap the dreaded Heffalump but leave Roo at home. With no one to keep him company, Roo sets off on his own to explore and meets a young Heffalump named Lumpy. They become friends and convince their families that they shouldn’t be afraid of each other. Toddlers will enjoy this film filled with funny and playful moments with adorable songs by the iconic Carly Simon.
Cars (2006)
Rated: G | Run Time: 1h 57m | Where to Watch: Disney+
Car-obsessed kiddos will love the movie Cars—plus all the sequels in this popular Disney movie franchise. Rookie race car Lightning McQueen ends up in the small, rundown town of Radiator Springs. There, he meets new friends and learns the real meaning of winning. Cars is perfect for toddlers because once they’ve watched the first movie multiple times, they can move on to Cars 2 and Cars 3.
Bolt (2008)
Rated: PG | Run Time: 1h 40m | Where to Watch: Disney+
This comedy-adventure film is filled with laughs. It follows a canine film star, Bolt, who plays a superhero in a TV show. After he’s accidentally shipped off to New York City, Bolt begins an adventure where he learns that his TV superpowers aren’t real.
If your little ones are anything like mine and love animals, this film will for sure be a hit. Bolt is such a fun, lovable character, and seeing him in action will make your little ones fall in love with him. This movie is full of action and adventure for the entire family.
Soul (2020)
Rated: PG | Run Time: 1h 50m | Where to Watch: Disney+
This heartwarming film follows Joe Gardner, a middle school band teacher who gets his big break as a jazz musician but then falls into a manhole and ends up in the afterlife. With the help of a precocious soul named 22, Joe learns valuable lessons about what it means to have a fulfilling life and what truly makes us who we are.
A Bug’s Life (1998)
Rated: G | Run Time: 1h 40m | Where to Watch: Disney+
A Bug’s Life is a great film for family movie night. The story follows an ant who is a disruptor and wants change for his colony. He pretends to be a soldier and tries to save his entire colony from the evil grasshopper, Hopper. There are a few scary scenes to watch out for, with termites and angry ants throughout the film.
Finding Nemo (2003)
Rated: G | Run Time: 1h 44m | Where to Watch: Disney+
Finding Nemo is a cult classic, an Academy Award-winner, and possibly the most quoted film on this list. Nemo, an adventurous young clownfish, goes on an unexpected journey when he’s accidentally captured from Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and taken to a dentist’s office aquarium. Now, it’s up to his father, Marlin, to get him home safe. However, it’s important to note that the opening scene of the film might be a little scary for a young audience.
Fireheart (2022)
Rated: PG | Run Time: 1h 32m | Where to Watch: Hulu
Fireheart is a perfect pick for toddlers in their firefighter era. Teenage Georgia dreams of being a firefighter like her dad. But, she lives during a time when society does not allow women to become firefighters.
After firefighters begin disappearing in mysterious fires, Georgia disguises herself as a man to solve the mystery. Be on the lookout for a few scary scenes in the film. Buildings on fire or the mysterious arsonist may be a bit scary for toddlers.
Toy Story (1995)
Rated: G | Run Time: 1h 29m | Where to Watch: Disney+
Toy Story is a ‘90s animated movie widely regarded as a film classic, with famous actors like Tom Hanks, Tim Allen, Wallace Shawn, and more voicing its beloved characters. A young boy named Andy spends his days playing with his most cherished toys. From a cowboy named Woody to a new toy astronaut named Buzz Lightyear, Andy doesn’t know that all of his toys (and every toy out there) come to life when he and other kids aren’t looking. All the Toy Story movies are worth watching with the entire family!
Frozen (2013)
Rated: PG | Run Time: 1h 46m | Where to Watch: Disney+
A cultural phenomenon, if there ever was one, Frozen follows the ever-optimistic Anna as she teams up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and lovable Olaf the snowman to find and save her older sister, Elsa, whose ice powers have thrust their kingdom of Arendelle into eternal winter.
Encanto (2021)
Rated: PG | Run Time: 1h 42m | Where to Watch: Disney+
The Madrigals are an extraordinary family nestled in the mountains of Colombia. Every child in the family is blessed with a special gift—except Mirabel. But when the magic around their casita starts to fail, Mirabel discovers she may be her family’s only hope of survival.
More Movies for Toddlers on Disney+ and Hulu
- The Tigger Movie — G (2000)
- Elemental — PG (2023)
- Inside Out — PG (2015)
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh — TV-Y (1977)
- Coco — PG (2017)
- Lilo & Stitch — PG (2002)
- Ice Age — PG (2002)
- Tangled — PG (2010)
- Brave — PG (2012)
Best Movies for Toddlers on Netflix
Sing (2016)
Rated: PG | Run Time: 1h 40m | Where to Watch: Netflix
I haven’t met a family yet who doesn’t love the movie Sing. My kids know pretty much every song word for word. Toddlers will love everything from the colors to the characters and the music of the film. Your little ones will sing and dance throughout the whole movie. And if you love Sing, you’ll definitely love Sing 2 as well!
Gabby’s Dollhouse: The Movie (2025)
Rated: G | Run Time: 1h 38m | Where to Watch: Netflix
In this movie adaptation of a beloved series, Gabby’s road trip to Cat Francisco turns into a desperate mission to save her most prized possession: her dollhouse.
More Movies for Toddlers on Netflix
- Octonauts & the Caves of Sac Actun — TV-Y (2020)
- A Trash Truck Christmas —TV-Y (2020)
- Blippi’s Big Dino Adventure — TV-Y (2023)
- Clifford: The Big Red Dog — PG (2021)
Best Movies for Toddlers on Amazon Prime Video
Peppa Pig: My First Cinema Experience (2017)
Rated: G | Run Time: 1h 5m | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
If your toddler is as obsessed with Peppa Pig as mine is, this movie is the perfect family-friendly pick for movie night. This movie is a compilation of unreleased episodes featuring Peppa and her friends going on adventures.
Curious George (2006)
Rated: G | Run Time: 1h 27m | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Everyone loves Curious George. In this film, we follow the mischievous monkey as he sets out on a series of adventures. The Curious George movies are a good, safe movie choice for toddlers. They’re full of laughter, friendship, and lessons about perseverance. The entire family will love the funny scenes in this movie, thanks in part to the voices of Will Ferrell and Drew Barrymore.
Dr. Seuss’ Horton Hears a Who! (2008)
Rated: G | Run Time: 1h 26m | Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
An elephant named Horton discovers that a speck of dust holds the town of Whoville. Horton uses his elephant-sized heart to speak up for the Whos of Whoville and teaches that compassion and determination always win.
Best Movies for Toddlers on Apple TV
Flushed Away (2006)
Rated: PG | Run Time: 1h 25m | Where to Watch: Apple TV
Join Roddy and Kate on an adventure after Roddy accidentally gets flushed down the toilet and ends up in Ratropolis. Kate, a sewer scavenger, agrees to help Roddy get back to his luxury flat in London, but the evil toad wants his cousin to exterminate the rats. This movie is full of twists and turns to keep toddlers alert. Look out for scary scenes involving The Toad and Le Frog.
Franklin and the Green Knight (2010)
Rated: G | Run Time: 1h 15m | Where to Watch: Apple TV
If you’re looking for a low-stim toddler flick, Franklin and the Green Knight is a great choice. A young turtle named Franklin is on a quest to find the spring season. In this adorable movie, Franklin is waiting for his new sibling to be born. And with a new baby turtle in the mix, Franklin realizes that means mom and dad won’t give him the one-on-one attention he’s used to.
Best Movies for Toddlers on Paramount+
PAW Patrol: The Movie (2021)
Rated: G | Run Time: 1h 26m | Where to Watch: Paramount+
If your little one is obsessed with PAW Patrol, they’re sure to love the feature-length movie where the pups’ heroic powers are once again put to the test. PAW Patrol fans will also want to catch PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie, which came out in September 2023, and PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie, which hits theaters in summer 2026.
Baby Shark’s Big Movie (2023)
Rated: TV-Y | Run Time: 1h 23m | Where to Watch: Paramount+
If your little one loves singing along to the “Baby Shark” song, then they’ll want to join the adventure in this adorable movie for toddlers. An evil pop starfish wants to steal Baby Shark’s magical song so that she can claim all the music as her own in the big sea. Can Baby Shark save the ocean and his oh-so popular song?
Blue’s Big City Adventure (2022)
Rated: G | Run Time: 1h 14m | Where to Watch: Paramount+
Travel with Josh and Blue to the Big Apple for an audition to star in a Broadway musical. This one is sure to be a hit. The musical numbers, animated characters, and special effects will keep toddlers entertained. A huge plus about Blue’s Big City Adventure is that there are no scary scenes!
Best Toddler Movies on HBO Max
Ferdinand (2017)
Rated: PG | Run Time: 1h 46m | Where to Watch: HBO Max
The creators of Ice Age and Rio wrote the film, basing it on the children’s book Ferdinand. In his hometown, Ferdinand, a gentle bull, is mistaken for a dangerous animal and torn from his home. He rallies together with his friends to help him return to his family. This film is filled with adventure for the entire family!
FAQs About Toddler Movies
Are movies appropriate for toddlers?
Yes, movies can be suitable for toddlers when chosen carefully. Look for age-appropriate low stimulation films with gentle storylines, slow-paced scenes, and minimal overstimulation. Many animated and educational movies are designed specifically for young children
What makes a movie toddler-friendly?
Toddler-friendly movies typically include simple and easy-to-follow plots. Visuals that are not overwhelming but bright can keep a toddler interested. Positive themes like kindness, friendship, family, and teamwork always make for great early lessons for toddlers.
How long should a toddler watch a movie?
Screen time for toddlers should be limited. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests no more than one hour per day for children ages 2 and 5. Split viewing into shorter segments if your toddler struggles to sit through an entire movie.
What are some great educational movies for toddlers?
Educational movies like Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood: Tiger Family Trip introduce concepts like teamwork, problem-solving, and emotional learning. Classics like Blue’s Big City Adventure also blend entertainment with foundational skills.
Are there movies to avoid for toddlers?
Avoid movies with intense action, complex plots, or themes that might be scary or confusing. For example, some superhero movies may include scenes or dialogue unsuitable for young viewers.
How do I keep my toddler engaged during a movie?
Choosing a movie with repetitive elements or songs can help keep toddlers engaged. Watch movies with a toddler during a calm part of the day, like after a nap. You can also offer snacks or toys related to the movie to keep kids interested.
Where can I stream toddler-friendly movies?
Popular platforms for toddler movies include Disney+, Hulu, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Paramount+.
Bianca Dottin, Contributing Writer
Bianca is a lifestyle expert and mom on a mission to inspire other moms to create a lifestyle they love. Born and raised in Florida, Bianca currently resides in Orlando with her husband and two children. When she’s not writing or creating content, you can find her exploring her city, traveling the world, and creating priceless memories with her family.
Patty Schepel, Associate Editor
As the Associate Editor, Patty works with The Everymom’s team on pitches, creating original articles, updating existing content, photo sourcing, writing shopping product descriptions, editing freelance articles, and more. With Patty’s passion for writing, experience as a mother of two, and expertise as a pediatric nurse, she brings a thoughtful and informative perspective to The Everymom.
