"Finding the best movies for toddlers can be a challenge. How do you find safe movies for 2-3 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 being 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 33 of the best movies for toddlers 2024 you can stream now.
Animated Movies for Toddlers
Wish (2023)
Where to Watch: Disney+ | Rated: PG
One of the most highly-anticipated new Disney movies, Wish is one 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.
Sing (2016)
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Rated: PG
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!
Rio (2011)
Where to Watch: Disney+ | Rated: G
This family-friendly movie takes place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Rio is the story of a bird named Blu. Blue was captured as a hatchling and did not lear 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)
Streaming on: Disney+ | Rated: G
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)
Where to Watch: Disney+ | Rated: G
Car-obsessed kiddos will love the movie Cars—plus all the sequels in this popular Disney movie franchise. Rookie racecar 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)
Where to Watch: Disney+ | Rated: PG
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 whole family.
A Bug’s Life (1998)
Where to Watch: Disney+ | Rated: G
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 ant and falls in love with a beautiful princess ant while trying 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 featured in scenes throughout the film.
Flushed Away (2006)
Where to Watch: Apple TV | Rated: PG
Join Roddy and Kate through 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.
Finding Nemo (2003)
Where to watch: Disney+ | Rated: G
This kaleidoscope underwater adventure follows friends Marlin and Dory as they set out to rescue Marlin’s son, Nemo. A diver captures Nemo and traps him in a fish tank.
Little ones will love the vivid color-scapes and giggle about the antics of quirky characters. Plus, it’s a lovely mix of messages about courage, persistence, and friendship. A note for parents and caregivers: You might just want to skip the scary barracuda moment at the beginning of the movie.
Shaun The Sheep Movie (2015)
Where to Watch: Peacock | Rated: PG
My daughter loved this movie when she was younger. I can’t tell you how many times we watched it.
In this movie, Shaun the Sheep and his flock venture into the city to save their farmer. This stop-motion animated film grabs kids’ attention instantly. The laughs will be endless watching this one.
Fireheart (2022)
Where to Watch: Hulu | Rated: PG
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.
More Animated Movies Toddlers Will Love
From killer soundtracks to characters little ones will adore, these animated movies get the toddler seal of approval:
- Toy Story 2 (1999) – Rated G, Disney+
- The Tigger Movie (2000) – Rated G, Disney+
- Monsters, Inc. (2001) – Rated G, Disney+
- Frozen (2013) – Rated PG, Disney+
- Moana (2016) – Rated PG, Disney+
- Trolls (2016) – Rated PG, Netflix
- Soul (2020) – Rated PG, Disney+
- Encanto (2021) – Rated PG, Disney+
- Leo (2023) – Rated PG, Netflix
- Elemental (2023) – Rated PG, Disney+
- Chupa (2023) – Rated PG, Netflix
Movies Based on Toddler TV Shows & Books
PAW Patrol: The Movie (2021)
Where to Watch: Paramount+ | Rated: G
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, that came out in September 2023.
Peppa Pig: My First Cinema Experience (2017)
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video | Rated: G
If your toddler is as obsessed with Peppa Pig as mine, 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.
Blue’s Big City Adventure (2022)
Where to Watch: Paramount+ | Rated: G
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 there are no scary scenes!
The Gruffalo (2009)
Where to Watch: Apple TV+ | Rated: G
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.
Ferdinand (2017)
Where to Watch: Disney+ | Rated: PG
In his hometown, Ferdinand is mistaken for a dangerous animal and torn from his home. He rallies together with his friends to help him return to his family. Ferdinand is a film filled with adventure that the entire family is sure to love. The creators of Ice Age and Rio wrote the film, basing it on the children’s book Ferdinand.
Curious George (2006)
Where to Watch: Hulu | Rated: G
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.
More Movies With Characters Toddlers Will Love
- Octonauts & the Caves of Sac Actun (2020) – Rated TV-Y, Netflix
- A Trash Truck Christmas (2020) – Rated TV-Y, Netflix
- Peter Pan & Wendy (2023) – Rated PG, Disney+
- Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023) – Rated PG, Paramount+
Frequently Asked Questions About Toddler Movies
1. 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
2. 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.
3. 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 2-5. Split viewing into shorter segments if your toddler struggles to sit through an entire movie
4. What are some great educational movies for toddlers?
Educational movies like Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood introduce concepts like teamwork, problem-solving, and emotional learning. Classics like Sesame Street also blend entertainment with foundational skills.
5. 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
6. 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.
7. Where can I stream toddler-friendly movies?
Popular platforms for toddler movies include:
- Disney+ (Moana, Encanto, The Lion King).
- Netflix (Puffin Rock, Octonauts).
- YouTube (Ms. Rachel, Super Simple Songs)
Read More: Keep Calm: The Best Low-Stimulation Shows for Toddlers
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
Brett Nicole Hayden, Assistant Editor
As the Assistant Editor, Brett works with the editors of The Everymom on the content creation process by updating stories, sourcing images and graphics, and pitching and contributing her own articles. Her favorite topics to write about are culture, relationships, and living. She’s also The Everymom’s resident baby names and family movies expert!